Public urged to embrace reading culture

DAR ES SAAALAAM: THE public has been urged to embrace a culture of reading diverse books that provide profound knowledge and insights as a foundation for building a skilled and knowledgeable workforce.

Public-Private Partnership Centre (PPPC) Executive Director David Kafulila said on Tuesday in Dar es Salaam that writing and reading are the pillars driving the global economy today, hence putting more effort in extracting ideas is vital.

“We are in a highly competitive world, and what determines success in such competition is knowledge, which is primarily acquired through reading.

“Therefore, as a society, we must invest heavily in reading a variety of books to gain deeper insights to create a productive and empowered generation capable of contributing significantly to societal development,” said Mr Kafulila during the launch of a financial literacy book.

Financial literacy in the country has seen notable improvements in recent years, yet challenges persist.

The 2023 Finscope Survey indicated that the uptake of financial services among young people and women remains low.

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Approximately 76 per cent of adults utilise formal financial services, largely due to the proliferation of mobile money platforms.

However, traditional banking services remain underutilized, with 78 per cent of the adult population remaining unbanked.

He said that through reading, a society is creating a generation of productive individuals who will contribute significantly to building a better economy, urging SMEs to engage more in reading to acquire financial literacy which is still a challenge in the country.

The book entitled ‘I am positioned-The way to your financial freedom’ by Ms Leah Karunde, a Renowned Tax Consultant and entrepreneur, emphasizes how to nurture connections, seizing opportunities and cultivating a success-driven mindset that can unlock sustainable prosperity.

“The purpose is to enable others to stand firmly when it comes to financial management through the knowledge provided in the book.

“It is a blueprint for aligning with your purpose, embracing your unique path and thriving through faith, strategy and resilience,” said Ms Karunde.

The book has highlighted five major topics, including practical financial strategies, Learn how Relationships, Opportunity, and Mindset (ROM) can be leveraged as pillars of personal and financial success, personal triumphs, the Rasimisha Programme, and faith and purpose.

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Additionally, the CARE International’s Country Director Ms Prudence Masako said the book will empower young people to dream big and turn those dreams into reality without the constant burden of financial stress.

“Her motivation wasn’t just about money but about creating a vision for a space where young people—and even older generations—could thrive together,” she said.

She added that true development is only possible when people achieve financial independence.