THRDC hails enhanced collaboration with government

DODOMA: THE Tanzania Human Rights Defenders Coalition (THRDC) has commended the growing partnership with the government, highlighting unprecedented cooperation and reduced friction.

Speaking to the Daily News, the THRDC National Coordinator, Mr Onesmo Olengurumwa said the current government has set a new benchmark for cordial and productive engagement with NGOs.

“There has been a strong and healthy relationship between NGOs and the government. NGOs have been able to carry out their work without interference, which has significantly reduced bureaucracy and misunderstandings. Our collaboration with the government is now very smooth,” he said.

Mr Olengurumwa also applauded the representation of NGOs in Parliament, noting that the inclusion of a Member of Parliament specifically representing the sector has positively transformed its engagement with national policy and legislative processes.

“The representation we have seen in this term is unlike any other in the past, thanks to Ms Neema Lugangira, a Special Seats MP representing NGOs in Parliament. She has done a tremendous job,” he said.

He further expressed hope that the number of MPs representing NGOs will increase in future to strengthen the sector’s voice in policymaking processes.

“We would really like to see one of the ten MPs appointed by President Samia come from the NGO sector,” Mr Olengurumwa added.

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In an exclusive interview with Daily News, Ms Lugangira noted that one of her core responsibilities has been to act as a bridge between NGOs and the government, enabling civil society to contribute meaningfully to the implementation of the 2020–2025 CCM Election Manifesto.

“One of my first goals was to organise a meeting between the Ministry of Community Development, Gender, Women and Special Groups and the NGOs in Tanzania. The meeting took place on 27 January 2021 and has since become a regular engagement,” she said.

The MP has also collaborated with the government to convene a landmark Government– NGO Consultative Forum, inaugurated by President Samia Suluhu Hassan on 30 September 2021.

She said the forum set the tone for a new era of constructive engagement.

“For the first time in our country’s history, President Samia was invited to participated as the chief guest at an event held by THRDC,” Ms Lugangira said.

The President was honoured with an award recognising her contribution to human rights and the rule of law during her first year in office.