Free education needs full commitment
DAR ES SALAAM: WE must reach a point, where we all know that education is not a favour; it is a right, and today that right is being placed squarely within reach of every family.
With government-funded, free basic education till one reaches Advanced-level now available, parents and guardians hold the decisive key: Ensuring that every child of school-going age is enrolled, attends regularly and stays in school.
This call is not abstract. It is practical, urgent and rooted in the future we want for our communities. The government is strategised to make sure that no child will be turned away. Physical disability is not a barrier. Poverty is not a sentence.
Gender, ethnicity, religion, or family background will not determine who belongs in the classroom. The policy is clear and the promise is firm: All children will be treated equally, taught with dignity, and supported to learn.
Schools are now opening their doors and they are waiting for parents to walk their children through those doors.
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Free education removes the heaviest burden and that is tuition and school fees, but it does not remove parental responsibility. Learning cannot thrive on an empty stomach. While the state shoulders tuition, families must do their part to provide what keeps children present, healthy and attentive.
Simple meals, basic care and encouragement at home are not optional extras; they are the fuel of concentration and the foundation of success. Too many children miss school not because classrooms are closed, but because adults look away.
Street hawking, farm labour, early marriages, and domestic chores still pull young minds from desks to drudgery. This must stop. Every day a child is absent is a lesson lost, a confidence eroded, and a future narrowed. Education delayed is opportunity denied. Parents and guardians are partners in this national effort.
Ask questions. Visit schools. Monitor attendance. Speak to teachers. Educated children grow into skilled workers, responsible citizens and informed voters. Communities with strong schools enjoy better health, safer streets and stronger economies. When we keep children learning, we reduce inequality and expand hope.
This is a moment to act, not to hesitate. Enrol every child. Keep them fed. Keep them focused. Keep them learning. Government has done its part by opening the gate. It is now the duty of parents and guardians to lead children through it, every morning, without excuse.
The future is calling. Answer it with attendance, commitment, and care. Let us remember that education shapes character, builds resilience, and equips young people to question, create and lead. A nation that invests in classrooms invests in peace, productivity and shared prosperity.
Consistency matters: Punctuality, homework, rest and routine turn access into achievement. Guardians should protect study time, celebrate progress and model the discipline they expect. Schools cannot replace families, but families can empower schools to succeed.
When children are present, prepared and nourished, teachers can teach, learners can learn and futures can flourish. Do not wait for tomorrow; the bell is already ringing. Show up, provide, encourage and persist. Education works when adults do. Make attendance a habit, learning a priority, and childhood a promise kept together by all.
PART A: HOW TO CREATE DECENT WORK IN TANZANIA
Decent work means jobs that are:
✔ Productive
✔ Fairly paid
✔ Safe
✔ Secure
✔ Inclusive (youth, women, people with disabilities)
Aligned with ILO Decent Work Agenda and Tanzania Development Vision 2025.
1. Focus on High-Impact Sectors in Tanzania
1. Agriculture & Agro-processing (Top Priority)
Employs most Tanzanians but offers low income and informality.
Actions
Promote value addition (cashew, sunflower oil, rice, coffee)
Support irrigation, storage, and rural roads
Organize farmers into cooperatives
Introduce contracts and minimum standards for farm workers
Decent work outcome: Higher incomes, job security, rural dignity.
2. SMEs & Entrepreneurship
SMEs are the biggest job creators.
Actions
Simplify business registration (BRELA, online systems)
Reduce taxes for startups and small firms
Provide business training and mentoring
Encourage formalization of informal businesses
Decent work outcome: Sustainable, locally owned jobs.
3. Manufacturing & Industrial Parks
Supports Tanzania’s industrialization agenda.
Actions
Develop SEZs and industrial parks
Encourage local processing instead of exporting raw materials
Enforce labor standards and safety rules
Decent work outcome: Formal employment with stable wages.
4. Youth & Women Employment
Youth unemployment and underemployment are major challenges.
Actions
Apprenticeships and internships
Youth and women startup support
TVET and skills aligned with market needs
Access to childcare and flexible work for women
Decent work outcome: Inclusive growth and reduced inequality.
5. Green & Digital Jobs (Future Jobs)
Green jobs
Renewable energy (solar, biogas)
Waste management & recycling
Climate-smart agriculture
Digital jobs
ICT, mobile services, e-commerce
Digital skills and remote work
Decent work outcome: Sustainable and future-ready employment.
PART B: HOW TO GET FUNDING FOR DECENT WORK IN TANZANIA
Funding can come from government, banks, donors, NGOs, and private investors.
1. Government Funding & Public Programs
Sources
Ministry of Labour, Youth, Employment and Persons with Disability
Local Government Authorities (LGAs)
Youth Development Fund
Women Development Fund
Tanzania Social Action Fund (TASAF)
How to access
Register a group, cooperative, or enterprise
Submit a project proposal through your LGA
Meet eligibility (youth/women focus, job creation)
2. Development Banks & Financial Institutions
Key institutions
Tanzania Agricultural Development Bank (TADB)
Tanzania Investment Bank (TIB)
National Microfinance Bank (NMB)
CRDB Bank
SACCOS & microfinance institutions
Funding types
Low-interest loans
Credit guarantees
SME financing
Tip: A clear business plan increases approval chances.
3. Donors & International Organizations
Major funders
World Bank
African Development Bank (AfDB)
ILO
UNDP
EU
USAID
GIZ
DFID/FCDO
What they fund
Youth employment
Skills development
Women empowerment
Green jobs
Formalization of informal work
How to access
Through government programs
NGOs and CSOs
Competitive grant calls
4. NGOs, Foundations & CSOs
Examples
Restless Development
Plan International
BRAC
Mastercard Foundation
Aga Khan Foundation
Funding forms
Grants
Training + seed capital
Incubation programs
Best for: Youth and community-based projects.
5. Private Sector & Impact Investors
Sources
Impact investment funds
Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs)
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
Angel investors
Best for
Scalable businesses
Green, tech, and agribusiness projects
6. What You Need to Get Funding (Very Important)
Essential documents
✔ Business plan or project proposal
✔ Clear job-creation targets
✔ Budget and timeline
✔ Registration (BRELA, NGO, CBO, or cooperative)
✔ Monitoring & evaluation plan
Strong proposals show:
How many jobs will be created
Who benefits (youth, women, rural poor)
Sustainability beyond funding
Alignment with national priorities
SIMPLE SUMMARY
To create decent work in Tanzania:
Invest in agriculture, SMEs, industry, youth, and green jobs
Improve skills, formalization, and labor rights
To get funding:
Use government programs
Approach banks and development finance
Apply for donor and NGO grants
Prepare strong, job-focused proposals
PART A: HOW TO CREATE DECENT WORK IN TANZANIA
Decent work means jobs that are:
✔ Productive
✔ Fairly paid
✔ Safe
✔ Secure
✔ Inclusive (youth, women, people with disabilities)
Aligned with ILO Decent Work Agenda and Tanzania Development Vision 2025.
1. Focus on High-Impact Sectors in Tanzania
1. Agriculture & Agro-processing (Top Priority)
Employs most Tanzanians but offers low income and informality.
Actions
Promote value addition (cashew, sunflower oil, rice, coffee)
Support irrigation, storage, and rural roads
Organize farmers into cooperatives
Introduce contracts and minimum standards for farm workers
Decent work outcome: Higher incomes, job security, rural dignity.
2. SMEs & Entrepreneurship
SMEs are the biggest job creators.
Actions
Simplify business registration (BRELA, online systems)
Reduce taxes for startups and small firms
Provide business training and mentoring
Encourage formalization of informal businesses
Decent work outcome: Sustainable, locally owned jobs.
3. Manufacturing & Industrial Parks
Supports Tanzania’s industrialization agenda.
Actions
Develop SEZs and industrial parks
Encourage local processing instead of exporting raw materials
Enforce labor standards and safety rules
Decent work outcome: Formal employment with stable wages.
4. Youth & Women Employment
Youth unemployment and underemployment are major challenges.
Actions
Apprenticeships and internships
Youth and women startup support
TVET and skills aligned with market needs
Access to childcare and flexible work for women
Decent work outcome: Inclusive growth and reduced inequality.
5. Green & Digital Jobs (Future Jobs)
Green jobs
Renewable energy (solar, biogas)
Waste management & recycling
Climate-smart agriculture
Digital jobs
ICT, mobile services, e-commerce
Digital skills and remote work
Decent work outcome: Sustainable and future-ready employment.
PART B: HOW TO GET FUNDING FOR DECENT WORK IN TANZANIA
Funding can come from government, banks, donors, NGOs, and private investors.
1. Government Funding & Public Programs
Sources
Ministry of Labour, Youth, Employment and Persons with Disability
Local Government Authorities (LGAs)
Youth Development Fund
Women Development Fund
Tanzania Social Action Fund (TASAF)
How to access
Register a group, cooperative, or enterprise
Submit a project proposal through your LGA
Meet eligibility (youth/women focus, job creation)
2. Development Banks & Financial Institutions
Key institutions
Tanzania Agricultural Development Bank (TADB)
Tanzania Investment Bank (TIB)
National Microfinance Bank (NMB)
CRDB Bank
SACCOS & microfinance institutions
Funding types
Low-interest loans
Credit guarantees
SME financing
Tip: A clear business plan increases approval chances.
3. Donors & International Organizations
Major funders
World Bank
African Development Bank (AfDB)
ILO
UNDP
EU
USAID
GIZ
DFID/FCDO
What they fund
Youth employment
Skills development
Women empowerment
Green jobs
Formalization of informal work
How to access
Through government programs
NGOs and CSOs
Competitive grant calls
4. NGOs, Foundations & CSOs
Examples
Restless Development
Plan International
BRAC
Mastercard Foundation
Aga Khan Foundation
Funding forms
Grants
Training + seed capital
Incubation programs
Best for: Youth and community-based projects.
5. Private Sector & Impact Investors
Sources
Impact investment funds
Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs)
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
Angel investors
Best for
Scalable businesses
Green, tech, and agribusiness projects
6. What You Need to Get Funding (Very Important)
Essential documents
✔ Business plan or project proposal
✔ Clear job-creation targets
✔ Budget and timeline
✔ Registration (BRELA, NGO, CBO, or cooperative)
✔ Monitoring & evaluation plan
Strong proposals show:
How many jobs will be created
Who benefits (youth, women, rural poor)
Sustainability beyond funding
Alignment with national priorities
SIMPLE SUMMARY
To create decent work in Tanzania:
Invest in agriculture, SMEs, industry, youth, and green jobs
Improve skills, formalization, and labor rights
To get funding:
Use government programs
Approach banks and development finance
Apply for donor and NGO grants
Prepare strong, job-focused proposals
PART A: HOW TO CREATE DECENT WORK IN TANZANIA
Decent work means jobs that are:
✔ Productive
✔ Fairly paid
✔ Safe
✔ Secure
✔ Inclusive (youth, women, people with disabilities)
Aligned with ILO Decent Work Agenda and Tanzania Development Vision 2025.
1. Focus on High-Impact Sectors in Tanzania
1. Agriculture & Agro-processing (Top Priority)
Employs most Tanzanians but offers low income and informality.
Actions
Promote value addition (cashew, sunflower oil, rice, coffee)
Support irrigation, storage, and rural roads
Organize farmers into cooperatives
Introduce contracts and minimum standards for farm workers
Decent work outcome: Higher incomes, job security, rural dignity.
2. SMEs & Entrepreneurship
SMEs are the biggest job creators.
Actions
Simplify business registration (BRELA, online systems)
Reduce taxes for startups and small firms
Provide business training and mentoring
Encourage formalization of informal businesses
Decent work outcome: Sustainable, locally owned jobs.
3. Manufacturing & Industrial Parks
Supports Tanzania’s industrialization agenda.
Actions
Develop SEZs and industrial parks
Encourage local processing instead of exporting raw materials
Enforce labor standards and safety rules
Decent work outcome: Formal employment with stable wages.
4. Youth & Women Employment
Youth unemployment and underemployment are major challenges.
Actions
Apprenticeships and internships
Youth and women startup support
TVET and skills aligned with market needs
Access to childcare and flexible work for women
Decent work outcome: Inclusive growth and reduced inequality.
5. Green & Digital Jobs (Future Jobs)
Green jobs
Renewable energy (solar, biogas)
Waste management & recycling
Climate-smart agriculture
Digital jobs
ICT, mobile services, e-commerce
Digital skills and remote work
Decent work outcome: Sustainable and future-ready employment.
PART B: HOW TO GET FUNDING FOR DECENT WORK IN TANZANIA
Funding can come from government, banks, donors, NGOs, and private investors.
1. Government Funding & Public Programs
Sources
Ministry of Labour, Youth, Employment and Persons with Disability
Local Government Authorities (LGAs)
Youth Development Fund
Women Development Fund
Tanzania Social Action Fund (TASAF)
How to access
Register a group, cooperative, or enterprise
Submit a project proposal through your LGA
Meet eligibility (youth/women focus, job creation)
2. Development Banks & Financial Institutions
Key institutions
Tanzania Agricultural Development Bank (TADB)
Tanzania Investment Bank (TIB)
National Microfinance Bank (NMB)
CRDB Bank
SACCOS & microfinance institutions
Funding types
Low-interest loans
Credit guarantees
SME financing
Tip: A clear business plan increases approval chances.
3. Donors & International Organizations
Major funders
World Bank
African Development Bank (AfDB)
ILO
UNDP
EU
USAID
GIZ
DFID/FCDO
What they fund
Youth employment
Skills development
Women empowerment
Green jobs
Formalization of informal work
How to access
Through government programs
NGOs and CSOs
Competitive grant calls
4. NGOs, Foundations & CSOs
Examples
Restless Development
Plan International
BRAC
Mastercard Foundation
Aga Khan Foundation
Funding forms
Grants
Training + seed capital
Incubation programs
Best for: Youth and community-based projects.
5. Private Sector & Impact Investors
Sources
Impact investment funds
Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs)
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
Angel investors
Best for
Scalable businesses
Green, tech, and agribusiness projects
6. What You Need to Get Funding (Very Important)
Essential documents
✔ Business plan or project proposal
✔ Clear job-creation targets
✔ Budget and timeline
✔ Registration (BRELA, NGO, CBO, or cooperative)
✔ Monitoring & evaluation plan
Strong proposals show:
How many jobs will be created
Who benefits (youth, women, rural poor)
Sustainability beyond funding
Alignment with national priorities
SIMPLE SUMMARY
To create decent work in Tanzania:
Invest in agriculture, SMEs, industry, youth, and green jobs
Improve skills, formalization, and labor rights
To get funding:
Use government programs
Approach banks and development finance
Apply for donor and NGO grants
Prepare strong, job-focused proposals
PART A: HOW TO CREATE DECENT WORK IN TANZANIA
Decent work means jobs that are:
✔ Productive
✔ Fairly paid
✔ Safe
✔ Secure
✔ Inclusive (youth, women, people with disabilities)
Aligned with ILO Decent Work Agenda and Tanzania Development Vision 2025.
1. Focus on High-Impact Sectors in Tanzania
1. Agriculture & Agro-processing (Top Priority)
Employs most Tanzanians but offers low income and informality.
Actions
Promote value addition (cashew, sunflower oil, rice, coffee)
Support irrigation, storage, and rural roads
Organize farmers into cooperatives
Introduce contracts and minimum standards for farm workers
Decent work outcome: Higher incomes, job security, rural dignity.
2. SMEs & Entrepreneurship
SMEs are the biggest job creators.
Actions
Simplify business registration (BRELA, online systems)
Reduce taxes for startups and small firms
Provide business training and mentoring
Encourage formalization of informal businesses
Decent work outcome: Sustainable, locally owned jobs.
3. Manufacturing & Industrial Parks
Supports Tanzania’s industrialization agenda.
Actions
Develop SEZs and industrial parks
Encourage local processing instead of exporting raw materials
Enforce labor standards and safety rules
Decent work outcome: Formal employment with stable wages.
4. Youth & Women Employment
Youth unemployment and underemployment are major challenges.
Actions
Apprenticeships and internships
Youth and women startup support
TVET and skills aligned with market needs
Access to childcare and flexible work for women
Decent work outcome: Inclusive growth and reduced inequality.
5. Green & Digital Jobs (Future Jobs)
Green jobs
Renewable energy (solar, biogas)
Waste management & recycling
Climate-smart agriculture
Digital jobs
ICT, mobile services, e-commerce
Digital skills and remote work
Decent work outcome: Sustainable and future-ready employment.
PART B: HOW TO GET FUNDING FOR DECENT WORK IN TANZANIA
Funding can come from government, banks, donors, NGOs, and private investors.
1. Government Funding & Public Programs
Sources
Ministry of Labour, Youth, Employment and Persons with Disability
Local Government Authorities (LGAs)
Youth Development Fund
Women Development Fund
Tanzania Social Action Fund (TASAF)
How to access
Register a group, cooperative, or enterprise
Submit a project proposal through your LGA
Meet eligibility (youth/women focus, job creation)
2. Development Banks & Financial Institutions
Key institutions
Tanzania Agricultural Development Bank (TADB)
Tanzania Investment Bank (TIB)
National Microfinance Bank (NMB)
CRDB Bank
SACCOS & microfinance institutions
Funding types
Low-interest loans
Credit guarantees
SME financing
Tip: A clear business plan increases approval chances.
3. Donors & International Organizations
Major funders
World Bank
African Development Bank (AfDB)
ILO
UNDP
EU
USAID
GIZ
DFID/FCDO
What they fund
Youth employment
Skills development
Women empowerment
Green jobs
Formalization of informal work
How to access
Through government programs
NGOs and CSOs
Competitive grant calls
4. NGOs, Foundations & CSOs
Examples
Restless Development
Plan International
BRAC
Mastercard Foundation
Aga Khan Foundation
Funding forms
Grants
Training + seed capital
Incubation programs
Best for: Youth and community-based projects.
5. Private Sector & Impact Investors
Sources
Impact investment funds
Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs)
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
Angel investors
Best for
Scalable businesses
Green, tech, and agribusiness projects
6. What You Need to Get Funding (Very Important)
Essential documents
✔ Business plan or project proposal
✔ Clear job-creation targets
✔ Budget and timeline
✔ Registration (BRELA, NGO, CBO, or cooperative)
✔ Monitoring & evaluation plan
Strong proposals show:
How many jobs will be created
Who benefits (youth, women, rural poor)
Sustainability beyond funding
Alignment with national priorities
SIMPLE SUMMARY
To create decent work in Tanzania:
Invest in agriculture, SMEs, industry, youth, and green jobs
Improve skills, formalization, and labor rights
To get funding:
Use government programs
Approach banks and development finance
Apply for donor and NGO grants
Prepare strong, job-focused proposals
PART A: HOW TO CREATE DECENT WORK IN TANZANIA
Decent work means jobs that are:
✔ Productive
✔ Fairly paid
✔ Safe
✔ Secure
✔ Inclusive (youth, women, people with disabilities)
Aligned with ILO Decent Work Agenda and Tanzania Development Vision 2025.
1. Focus on High-Impact Sectors in Tanzania
1. Agriculture & Agro-processing (Top Priority)
Employs most Tanzanians but offers low income and informality.
Actions
Promote value addition (cashew, sunflower oil, rice, coffee)
Support irrigation, storage, and rural roads
Organize farmers into cooperatives
Introduce contracts and minimum standards for farm workers
Decent work outcome: Higher incomes, job security, rural dignity.
2. SMEs & Entrepreneurship
SMEs are the biggest job creators.
Actions
Simplify business registration (BRELA, online systems)
Reduce taxes for startups and small firms
Provide business training and mentoring
Encourage formalization of informal businesses
Decent work outcome: Sustainable, locally owned jobs.
3. Manufacturing & Industrial Parks
Supports Tanzania’s industrialization agenda.
Actions
Develop SEZs and industrial parks
Encourage local processing instead of exporting raw materials
Enforce labor standards and safety rules
Decent work outcome: Formal employment with stable wages.
4. Youth & Women Employment
Youth unemployment and underemployment are major challenges.
Actions
Apprenticeships and internships
Youth and women startup support
TVET and skills aligned with market needs
Access to childcare and flexible work for women
Decent work outcome: Inclusive growth and reduced inequality.
5. Green & Digital Jobs (Future Jobs)
Green jobs
Renewable energy (solar, biogas)
Waste management & recycling
Climate-smart agriculture
Digital jobs
ICT, mobile services, e-commerce
Digital skills and remote work
Decent work outcome: Sustainable and future-ready employment.
PART B: HOW TO GET FUNDING FOR DECENT WORK IN TANZANIA
Funding can come from government, banks, donors, NGOs, and private investors.
1. Government Funding & Public Programs
Sources
Ministry of Labour, Youth, Employment and Persons with Disability
Local Government Authorities (LGAs)
Youth Development Fund
Women Development Fund
Tanzania Social Action Fund (TASAF)
How to access
Register a group, cooperative, or enterprise
Submit a project proposal through your LGA
Meet eligibility (youth/women focus, job creation)
2. Development Banks & Financial Institutions
Key institutions
Tanzania Agricultural Development Bank (TADB)
Tanzania Investment Bank (TIB)
National Microfinance Bank (NMB)
CRDB Bank
SACCOS & microfinance institutions
Funding types
Low-interest loans
Credit guarantees
SME financing
Tip: A clear business plan increases approval chances.
3. Donors & International Organizations
Major funders
World Bank
African Development Bank (AfDB)
ILO
UNDP
EU
USAID
GIZ
DFID/FCDO
What they fund
Youth employment
Skills development
Women empowerment
Green jobs
Formalization of informal work
How to access
Through government programs
NGOs and CSOs
Competitive grant calls
4. NGOs, Foundations & CSOs
Examples
Restless Development
Plan International
BRAC
Mastercard Foundation
Aga Khan Foundation
Funding forms
Grants
Training + seed capital
Incubation programs
Best for: Youth and community-based projects.
5. Private Sector & Impact Investors
Sources
Impact investment funds
Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs)
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
Angel investors
Best for
Scalable businesses
Green, tech, and agribusiness projects
6. What You Need to Get Funding (Very Important)
Essential documents
✔ Business plan or project proposal
✔ Clear job-creation targets
✔ Budget and timeline
✔ Registration (BRELA, NGO, CBO, or cooperative)
✔ Monitoring & evaluation plan
Strong proposals show:
How many jobs will be created
Who benefits (youth, women, rural poor)
Sustainability beyond funding
Alignment with national priorities
SIMPLE SUMMARY
To create decent work in Tanzania:
Invest in agriculture, SMEs, industry, youth, and green jobs
Improve skills, formalization, and labor rights
To get funding:
Use government programs
Approach banks and development finance
Apply for donor and NGO grants
Prepare strong, job-focused proposals
PART A: HOW TO CREATE DECENT WORK IN TANZANIA
Decent work means jobs that are:
✔ Productive
✔ Fairly paid
✔ Safe
✔ Secure
✔ Inclusive (youth, women, people with disabilities)
Aligned with ILO Decent Work Agenda and Tanzania Development Vision 2025.
1. Focus on High-Impact Sectors in Tanzania
1. Agriculture & Agro-processing (Top Priority)
Employs most Tanzanians but offers low income and informality.
Actions
Promote value addition (cashew, sunflower oil, rice, coffee)
Support irrigation, storage, and rural roads
Organize farmers into cooperatives
Introduce contracts and minimum standards for farm workers
Decent work outcome: Higher incomes, job security, rural dignity.
2. SMEs & Entrepreneurship
SMEs are the biggest job creators.
Actions
Simplify business registration (BRELA, online systems)
Reduce taxes for startups and small firms
Provide business training and mentoring
Encourage formalization of informal businesses
Decent work outcome: Sustainable, locally owned jobs.
3. Manufacturing & Industrial Parks
Supports Tanzania’s industrialization agenda.
Actions
Develop SEZs and industrial parks
Encourage local processing instead of exporting raw materials
Enforce labor standards and safety rules
Decent work outcome: Formal employment with stable wages.
4. Youth & Women Employment
Youth unemployment and underemployment are major challenges.
Actions
Apprenticeships and internships
Youth and women startup support
TVET and skills aligned with market needs
Access to childcare and flexible work for women
Decent work outcome: Inclusive growth and reduced inequality.
5. Green & Digital Jobs (Future Jobs)
Green jobs
Renewable energy (solar, biogas)
Waste management & recycling
Climate-smart agriculture
Digital jobs
ICT, mobile services, e-commerce
Digital skills and remote work
Decent work outcome: Sustainable and future-ready employment.
PART B: HOW TO GET FUNDING FOR DECENT WORK IN TANZANIA
Funding can come from government, banks, donors, NGOs, and private investors.
1. Government Funding & Public Programs
Sources
Ministry of Labour, Youth, Employment and Persons with Disability
Local Government Authorities (LGAs)
Youth Development Fund
Women Development Fund
Tanzania Social Action Fund (TASAF)
How to access
Register a group, cooperative, or enterprise
Submit a project proposal through your LGA
Meet eligibility (youth/women focus, job creation)
2. Development Banks & Financial Institutions
Key institutions
Tanzania Agricultural Development Bank (TADB)
Tanzania Investment Bank (TIB)
National Microfinance Bank (NMB)
CRDB Bank
SACCOS & microfinance institutions
Funding types
Low-interest loans
Credit guarantees
SME financing
Tip: A clear business plan increases approval chances.
3. Donors & International Organizations
Major funders
World Bank
African Development Bank (AfDB)
ILO
UNDP
EU
USAID
GIZ
DFID/FCDO
What they fund
Youth employment
Skills development
Women empowerment
Green jobs
Formalization of informal work
How to access
Through government programs
NGOs and CSOs
Competitive grant calls
4. NGOs, Foundations & CSOs
Examples
Restless Development
Plan International
BRAC
Mastercard Foundation
Aga Khan Foundation
Funding forms
Grants
Training + seed capital
Incubation programs
Best for: Youth and community-based projects.
5. Private Sector & Impact Investors
Sources
Impact investment funds
Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs)
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
Angel investors
Best for
Scalable businesses
Green, tech, and agribusiness projects
6. What You Need to Get Funding (Very Important)
Essential documents
✔ Business plan or project proposal
✔ Clear job-creation targets
✔ Budget and timeline
✔ Registration (BRELA, NGO, CBO, or cooperative)
✔ Monitoring & evaluation plan
Strong proposals show:
How many jobs will be created
Who benefits (youth, women, rural poor)
Sustainability beyond funding
Alignment with national priorities
SIMPLE SUMMARY
To create decent work in Tanzania:
Invest in agriculture, SMEs, industry, youth, and green jobs
Improve skills, formalization, and labor rights
To get funding:
Use government programs
Approach banks and development finance
Apply for donor and NGO grants
Prepare strong, job-focused proposals
PART A: HOW TO CREATE DECENT WORK IN TANZANIA
Decent work means jobs that are:
✔ Productive
✔ Fairly paid
✔ Safe
✔ Secure
✔ Inclusive (youth, women, people with disabilities)
Aligned with ILO Decent Work Agenda and Tanzania Development Vision 2025.
1. Focus on High-Impact Sectors in Tanzania
1. Agriculture & Agro-processing (Top Priority)
Employs most Tanzanians but offers low income and informality.
Actions
Promote value addition (cashew, sunflower oil, rice, coffee)
Support irrigation, storage, and rural roads
Organize farmers into cooperatives
Introduce contracts and minimum standards for farm workers
Decent work outcome: Higher incomes, job security, rural dignity.
2. SMEs & Entrepreneurship
SMEs are the biggest job creators.
Actions
Simplify business registration (BRELA, online systems)
Reduce taxes for startups and small firms
Provide business training and mentoring
Encourage formalization of informal businesses
Decent work outcome: Sustainable, locally owned jobs.
3. Manufacturing & Industrial Parks
Supports Tanzania’s industrialization agenda.
Actions
Develop SEZs and industrial parks
Encourage local processing instead of exporting raw materials
Enforce labor standards and safety rules
Decent work outcome: Formal employment with stable wages.
4. Youth & Women Employment
Youth unemployment and underemployment are major challenges.
Actions
Apprenticeships and internships
Youth and women startup support
TVET and skills aligned with market needs
Access to childcare and flexible work for women
Decent work outcome: Inclusive growth and reduced inequality.
5. Green & Digital Jobs (Future Jobs)
Green jobs
Renewable energy (solar, biogas)
Waste management & recycling
Climate-smart agriculture
Digital jobs
ICT, mobile services, e-commerce
Digital skills and remote work
Decent work outcome: Sustainable and future-ready employment.
PART B: HOW TO GET FUNDING FOR DECENT WORK IN TANZANIA
Funding can come from government, banks, donors, NGOs, and private investors.
1. Government Funding & Public Programs
Sources
Ministry of Labour, Youth, Employment and Persons with Disability
Local Government Authorities (LGAs)
Youth Development Fund
Women Development Fund
Tanzania Social Action Fund (TASAF)
How to access
Register a group, cooperative, or enterprise
Submit a project proposal through your LGA
Meet eligibility (youth/women focus, job creation)
2. Development Banks & Financial Institutions
Key institutions
Tanzania Agricultural Development Bank (TADB)
Tanzania Investment Bank (TIB)
National Microfinance Bank (NMB)
CRDB Bank
SACCOS & microfinance institutions
Funding types
Low-interest loans
Credit guarantees
SME financing
Tip: A clear business plan increases approval chances.
3. Donors & International Organizations
Major funders
World Bank
African Development Bank (AfDB)
ILO
UNDP
EU
USAID
GIZ
DFID/FCDO
What they fund
Youth employment
Skills development
Women empowerment
Green jobs
Formalization of informal work
How to access
Through government programs
NGOs and CSOs
Competitive grant calls
4. NGOs, Foundations & CSOs
Examples
Restless Development
Plan International
BRAC
Mastercard Foundation
Aga Khan Foundation
Funding forms
Grants
Training + seed capital
Incubation programs
Best for: Youth and community-based projects.
5. Private Sector & Impact Investors
Sources
Impact investment funds
Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs)
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
Angel investors
Best for
Scalable businesses
Green, tech, and agribusiness projects
6. What You Need to Get Funding (Very Important)
Essential documents
✔ Business plan or project proposal
✔ Clear job-creation targets
✔ Budget and timeline
✔ Registration (BRELA, NGO, CBO, or cooperative)
✔ Monitoring & evaluation plan
Strong proposals show:
How many jobs will be created
Who benefits (youth, women, rural poor)
Sustainability beyond funding
Alignment with national priorities
SIMPLE SUMMARY
To create decent work in Tanzania:
Invest in agriculture, SMEs, industry, youth, and green jobs
Improve skills, formalization, and labor rights
To get funding:
Use government programs
Approach banks and development finance
Apply for donor and NGO grants
Prepare strong, job-focused proposals
PART A: HOW TO CREATE DECENT WORK IN TANZANIA
Decent work means jobs that are:
✔ Productive
✔ Fairly paid
✔ Safe
✔ Secure
✔ Inclusive (youth, women, people with disabilities)
Aligned with ILO Decent Work Agenda and Tanzania Development Vision 2025.
1. Focus on High-Impact Sectors in Tanzania
1. Agriculture & Agro-processing (Top Priority)
Employs most Tanzanians but offers low income and informality.
Actions
Promote value addition (cashew, sunflower oil, rice, coffee)
Support irrigation, storage, and rural roads
Organize farmers into cooperatives
Introduce contracts and minimum standards for farm workers
Decent work outcome: Higher incomes, job security, rural dignity.
2. SMEs & Entrepreneurship
SMEs are the biggest job creators.
Actions
Simplify business registration (BRELA, online systems)
Reduce taxes for startups and small firms
Provide business training and mentoring
Encourage formalization of informal businesses
Decent work outcome: Sustainable, locally owned jobs.
3. Manufacturing & Industrial Parks
Supports Tanzania’s industrialization agenda.
Actions
Develop SEZs and industrial parks
Encourage local processing instead of exporting raw materials
Enforce labor standards and safety rules
Decent work outcome: Formal employment with stable wages.
4. Youth & Women Employment
Youth unemployment and underemployment are major challenges.
Actions
Apprenticeships and internships
Youth and women startup support
TVET and skills aligned with market needs
Access to childcare and flexible work for women
Decent work outcome: Inclusive growth and reduced inequality.
5. Green & Digital Jobs (Future Jobs)
Green jobs
Renewable energy (solar, biogas)
Waste management & recycling
Climate-smart agriculture
Digital jobs
ICT, mobile services, e-commerce
Digital skills and remote work
Decent work outcome: Sustainable and future-ready employment.
PART B: HOW TO GET FUNDING FOR DECENT WORK IN TANZANIA
Funding can come from government, banks, donors, NGOs, and private investors.
1. Government Funding & Public Programs
Sources
Ministry of Labour, Youth, Employment and Persons with Disability
Local Government Authorities (LGAs)
Youth Development Fund
Women Development Fund
Tanzania Social Action Fund (TASAF)
How to access
Register a group, cooperative, or enterprise
Submit a project proposal through your LGA
Meet eligibility (youth/women focus, job creation)
2. Development Banks & Financial Institutions
Key institutions
Tanzania Agricultural Development Bank (TADB)
Tanzania Investment Bank (TIB)
National Microfinance Bank (NMB)
CRDB Bank
SACCOS & microfinance institutions
Funding types
Low-interest loans
Credit guarantees
SME financing
Tip: A clear business plan increases approval chances.
3. Donors & International Organizations
Major funders
World Bank
African Development Bank (AfDB)
ILO
UNDP
EU
USAID
GIZ
DFID/FCDO
What they fund
Youth employment
Skills development
Women empowerment
Green jobs
Formalization of informal work
How to access
Through government programs
NGOs and CSOs
Competitive grant calls
4. NGOs, Foundations & CSOs
Examples
Restless Development
Plan International
BRAC
Mastercard Foundation
Aga Khan Foundation
Funding forms
Grants
Training + seed capital
Incubation programs
Best for: Youth and community-based projects.
5. Private Sector & Impact Investors
Sources
Impact investment funds
Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs)
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
Angel investors
Best for
Scalable businesses
Green, tech, and agribusiness projects
6. What You Need to Get Funding (Very Important)
Essential documents
✔ Business plan or project proposal
✔ Clear job-creation targets
✔ Budget and timeline
✔ Registration (BRELA, NGO, CBO, or cooperative)
✔ Monitoring & evaluation plan
Strong proposals show:
How many jobs will be created
Who benefits (youth, women, rural poor)
Sustainability beyond funding
Alignment with national priorities
SIMPLE SUMMARY
To create decent work in Tanzania:
Invest in agriculture, SMEs, industry, youth, and green jobs
Improve skills, formalization, and labor rights
To get funding:
Use government programs
Approach banks and development finance
Apply for donor and NGO grants
Prepare strong, job-focused proposals