VP urges moral restoration to tackle social gaps

KILIMANJARO: VICE-PRESIDENT Dr Philip Mpango has urged religious leaders and Tanzanians at large to uphold moral values and live by religious teachings to curb the growing moral erosion that continues to affect societies worldwide.

Dr Mpango made the call on Sunday in Same District, Kilimanjaro Region, during the celebration marking the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the Pare Diocese of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Tanzania (ELCTDP). The Vice-President represented President Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan at the event.

He said although the Pare Diocese had achieved significant milestones over the past five decades, moral decay, particularly among youth, remains a pressing challenge.

“Today, as we celebrate this 50-year journey, we must acknowledge the serious challenge of moral erosion affecting our youth. This has contributed to rising cases of violence, murder, family breakdowns and an increasing number of street children,” said Dr Mpango.

He added that other social challenges include misleading content spread through technology, youth reluctance to work, mental health problems and environmental degradation caused by climate change.

“These issues can be prevented if parents and religious leaders strengthen the moral upbringing of children. By doing so, we shall protect the moral foundation of our nation and secure its future,” he emphasised.

Dr Mpango commended faith-based institutions for their continued cooperation with the government, saying their role has been instrumental in promoting social development and improving the lives of citizens.

“I urge all religious institutions to continue supporting the government while aligning their efforts with Tanzania’s Vision 2050. Achieving this vision requires joint responsibility and dedication from every citizen,” he said.

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He further encouraged religious leaders to use modern technology to spread moral and spiritual teachings that help youth use digital platforms productively rather than destructively.

“Religious institutions should innovate and use technology for good—promoting positive messages and protecting young people from cyberbullying, pornography and hate speech,” he added.

ELCT Presiding Bishop Dr Alex Malasusa urged Tanzanians to uphold love and unity, noting that love strengthens families and contributes to national stability and progress.

For his part, ELCT Pare Diocese Bishop Charles Mjema thanked the government for its continued cooperation and requested additional medical personnel and a new ambulance for the Gonja Hospital, which serves over 150,000 residents.

He said the hospital, jointly managed by the Church and government, faces a shortage of doctors and operates with an ageing ambulance, which hinders effective service delivery.