Disabled groups urged to apply for govt loans

TABORA: CHAMA Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) National Executive Committee Secretary for Politics and International Relations, Ms Rabia Hamid, has called on persons with disabilities, young people and other social groups to utilise government loans provided through local authorities to improve their economic wellbeing.

Speaking in Tabora over the weekend during a meeting attended by party leaders, government officials, community groups and CCM members at Tabora Polytechnic, Ms Hamid said the loan programme offers opportunities for citizens to expand income-generating activities.

She said the available economic empowerment opportunities were open to eligible beneficiaries without discrimination.

“I have travelled to different regions and witnessed youth, women and persons with disabilities benefiting from affordable loans provided through local authorities. These opportunities are available and should be utilised,” Ms Hamid said.

She encouraged persons with disabilities to participate actively in economic activities instead of allowing social stigma to discourage them from pursuing available opportunities.

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“Persons with disabilities should not remain at home believing they cannot succeed. These loans are an important opportunity and no one should underestimate their potential,” she said.

Ms Hamid urged district commissioners, council directors, councillors and community development officers to ensure eligible beneficiaries receive information and support needed to access the loans.

According to her, greater participation by persons with disabilities in entrepreneurship and other incomegenerating activities could contribute to improving household livelihoods and economic inclusion.

She also encouraged the wider public to take advantage of government empowerment programmes designed to support community development.

“No one can transform your life for you. Your future is in your own hands,” she said.

The NEC Secretary commended cooperation between the Regional Commissioner’s Office and party leaders, saying collaboration had helped facilitate the implementation of development activities in the region.

She added that continued coordination between government institutions and party leaders remained important in implementing development programmes outlined in the party’s election manifesto.

The meeting formed part of ongoing engagements involving party and government leaders with communities on development initiatives and economic empowerment opportunities available through local government authorities.