Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete Convention Centre, Dodoma, Tanzania – August 12, 2024 – The celebration of International Youth Day 2024 in Dodoma brought together over 3,000 young people from across Tanzania, emphasizing the theme "From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development."

This year’s event highlighted the significant role of technology in advancing sustainable development and included the launch of the Tanzania Youth Development Policy and a panel discussion on Tanzania Vision 2050. The event provided a platform for vibrant discussions on how technology can drive progress in economic growth, environmental stewardship, and social equity.

Mark Bryan Schreiner, United Nations Resident Coordinator a.i, United Republic of Tanzania, underscored the impact of digital tools, stating,

“As a generation born into a digital world, young people are adept at harnessing the vast opportunities that technology offers to build a more inclusive present and future. Technology is one of society’s best tools to lessen inequality: It opens doors for young people across education, employment, and civic participation, and can promote gender equality and peace through innovation and the exchange of ideas.”

A key feature of the day was the panel discussion on Tanzania Vision 2050, which brought together young leaders and policymakers to explore how technology and innovation can contribute to realizing the nation’s long-term goals. The discussion emphasized youth involvement in shaping a sustainable future and highlighted the importance of strategic investments in education, employment, and entrepreneurship.

The newly launched Tanzania Youth Development Policy aims to address the diverse needs of young Tanzanians by providing a framework for educational advancement, job creation, and entrepreneurial opportunities. It also emphasizes the crucial role of youth in governance and decision-making processes.

The minister of State, Prime Minister’s Office [Labour, Youth, Employment and Persons with Disability] Honorable Ridhiwani Kikwete praised the policy's significance,

“The launch of the Tanzania Youth Development Policy marks a crucial step toward empowering our youth. It reflects a commitment to integrating young people into the fabric of our nation’s future,”

Said Hon. Ridhiwani Kikwete.

Getrude Clement, a Youth Advisory Panel Member in Tanzania, and technology expert,. highlighted the role of technology in addressing national and global challenges.

“The event not only celebrated the achievements of Tanzanian youth but also set the stage for our active involvement in shaping the future of the nation. Today, we see the transformative power of technology in tackling both national and global challenges. Young people are at the forefront of this revolution, driving innovative solutions that contribute to a more sustainable future,” Getrude noted.

 “Digital literacy is the key that unlocks the door to countless opportunities. It enables young people to innovate, solve problems, and engage with the world in meaningful ways. Governments, educational institutions, and private sectors must collaborate to integrate digital literacy into prioritized sectoral investments”. Said H.E. Amb. Didier Chassot,

Ambassador of Switzerland to Tanzania and to the EAC

The event also featured interactive sessions and exhibitions on emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and digital platforms aimed at combating climate change. Local and international tech innovators shared their insights, inspiring participants with examples of how technology can be harnessed for positive change.

As the day concluded, Mark Bryan Schreiner emphasized the importance of youth in shaping the future.

“We believe that in 25 years from now, young people will look back at this International Youth Day and recognize their role in laying the foundation for making Tanzania a better place for themselves and succeeding generations,” Said Schreiner.

The International Youth Day in Dodoma, organized by the Tanzanian Ministry of Youth in collaboration with UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund and supported by various local and international partners, celebrated the achievements of Tanzanian youth and reinforced the global commitment to involving young people in the pursuit of sustainable development.

For more information on the Tanzania Youth Development Policy and Vision 2050 initiatives, please visit Ministry of Youth Tanzania or follow our updates on social media.

Media Inquiries:

Dr. Warren Bright
UNFPA Communications Analyst
United Republic of Tanzania
Mobile: +255 764 43 44 45
Email: bwarren@unfpa.org