TASAF provides 479.5 ml/- to beneficiaries in Dar
DAR ES SALAAM: THE Tanzania Social Action Fund (TASAF) has provided a total of 479.5ml/- to beneficiaries living along the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) road corridors in three districts of Dar es Salaam. The funds, aimed at supporting underprivileged households, were distributed to 1,535 recognised beneficiaries out of 12,300 initially identified.
According to TASAF, the allocation covers Ubungo, where 437 individuals benefited, Ilala with 594 beneficiaries and Kinondoni with 504. Each household will receive 480,000/- for six months to help improve their living conditions and engage in economic activities.
Speaking during the handover event, Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner Albert Chalamila urged the recipients to utilise the funds wisely. He emphasised the importance of investing in income-generating activities instead of misusing the financial assistance.
“This money should not be seen as a simple handout but rather as capital to improve your livelihoods. Use it to start small businesses, invest in agriculture, or enhance your skills so that you can achieve long-term financial stability,” Chalamila said.
The Regional Commissioner also warned against misuse of the funds, cautioning that government support is meant for economic empowerment, not extravagant spending.
He called on local authorities to closely monitor the progress of the beneficiaries and ensure that the money serves its intended purpose.
On his part, TASAF Public Works and Infrastructure Manager Paul Kijazi who represented TASAF Chief Executive Officer, highlighted the significant progress made through the programme. He noted that since the introduction of the conditional cash transfer initiative, the poverty rate among targeted communities has declined by 8 per cent.
“We have witnessed remarkable improvements in the lives of our beneficiaries. The poverty rate in these areas has dropped, more children are attending school, healthcare services have improved and many households have been able to upgrade their living conditions,” he said.
The official further stated that the programme has contributed to an increase in school enrolment rates, as parents can now afford school fees and supplies. Additionally, access to healthcare services has improved due to the financial support provided to families, enabling them to seek medical care when needed.
On his part, Ubungo District Commissioner Lazaro Jacob said as a leader he will work accordingly to make sure all the beneficiaries are progressing well respectively.
“On behalf of my fellow district commissioners we will make sure we work closely with receivers so that they can progress well,” he noted.
The TASAF programme is part of the government’s broader strategy to alleviate poverty and enhance social welfare. By providing financial aid to vulnerable households, the initiative aims to empower citizens to become self-sufficient.
Chalamila echoed the government’s commitment to supporting low-income families and urged them to use the funds to build a better future. He also encouraged community leaders and stakeholders to continue working together to ensure sustainable economic development in the region.
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As the TASAF programme continues to expand, the government remains optimistic that more households will benefit, ultimately reducing poverty and improving the overall quality of life for many Tanzanians
