CSO’s urged to embrace digital technology

TANZANIA, Dar es Salaam: THE Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Tanzania have been challenged to optimise the use of new technology so as to reach out to a greater number of Tanzanians and bring more impact to the society.

Speaking on Wednesday in Dar es Salam during the launch of the CSO Week 2023, the Deputy Chairman of Parliamentary Committee on Health and HIV/AIDS, Dr Faustine Ndugulile encouraged the CSOs in the country to embrace the use of digital technology to attain financial inclusion.

“There is limited usage of technology among CSOs, very few CSOs are in the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) area… we have to embrace the use of ICT in bringing development and we can attain financial inclusion through digital inclusion,” he said.

Under the theme ‘Tech and Society: Then, Now and Beyond’, CSO Week 2023 will delve into the crucial intersection of technology and society, equipping CSOs with the knowledge and tools to navigate the opportunities and challenges that arise from the ever-evolving world of technology.

“Right to information is increasingly becoming a human right; CSOs can play a critical role in demanding accessibility, affordability and quality of services,” added Dr Ndugulile.

He noted that the voices of CSOs are increasingly being heard globally, due to its contribution in society.

“According to a report of the contribution of CSOs in National Development, 2022, by 2021, of the 665 NGOs reviewed, they contributed a total of 1,194 tri/- and spent 1,081 tri/-… over 79 million people were beneficiaries and employed 14,121 people,” he added

For his part, the CSO Week 2023 Coordinator, Mr Justice Rutenge said this year’s CSO week, which builds upon the success of its previous editions in 2018, 2019, 2021 and 2022, is expected to be a catalyst for transformative change, fostering a deeper understanding of the impact of technology on society and its potential role in shaping the future of Tanzania.

Regarding this year’s theme, he said the choice of the theme was made purposely to empower civil society organisations with the insights and expertise needed to advise both the government and private sector on the advantages and potential pitfalls of technology for the country’s development.

“The theme aims to inspire CSOs to embrace technology’s transformative power, leveraging it to serve the best interests of the communities they support, while remaining vigilant about its potential risks,” he said.

“The intertwining of technology and society is undeniable, having significantly altered the way we interact, communicate, work and perceive the world around us. To ensure continued relevance and impact, civil society organisations must adapt, innovate and proactively navigate these shifts,” he said.

This year’s CSO Week is expected to be held in Arusha next Monday and accompanied by various activities based on technology matters.