DAR ES SALAAM: The government has urged civil society organisations to remain vigilant and resist being manipulated by individuals or foreign entities that might threaten peace, national unity, and solidarity.
Deputy Minister for Home Affairs Ayoub Mohammed Mahmoud made the comments at the conclusion of the 70th-anniversary celebrations for the registration of civil society organisations, held at Mlimani City in Dar es Salaam. He emphasised the importance of using their platforms to resolve internal disputes amicably, rather than escalating conflicts through the media.
“The government values civil society organisations as key partners in promoting peace and unity,” Mr Mahmoud stated. He noted the ongoing challenge of moral decay in the country and called on these organisations to take a proactive role in addressing this issue, highlighting troubling behaviour among both young people and adults that deviates from Tanzanian values. He urged religious leaders to champion moral standards and contribute to societal improvement.
Mr Mahmoud also challenged civil society leaders to implement findings from the three-day event into initiatives that foster economic development, including creating sustainable income sources.
The celebrations concluded with the adoption of six resolutions after discussions on the roles of civil society organisations. Key outcomes included a commitment to ongoing participation in government efforts to uphold national unity, the organisation of an annual national conference, and the engagement of religious groups in tackling moral issues.
Additionally, the resolutions encouraged the use of available resources for job creation and financial enhancement, as well as ongoing education on critical issues such as money laundering, drug trafficking, and terrorist financing. Another resolution called for continued efforts towards promoting national integration and religious tolerance.
Registrar of Civil Society Organisations Emmanuel Kihampa reported that the three-day meeting engaged 5,300 participants, providing them with valuable skills for effective management, employment creation, and economic opportunity identification. He noted that the festivities had improved public understanding of the role of civil society organisations in fostering peace and stability.
The celebrations began on October 28, 2026, and were officially launched by Minister for Home Affairs Patrobas Katambi on behalf of President Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan.
