United Nations in Tanzania

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth’s environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. These are the goals the UN is working on in Tanzania:

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Publication

14 March 2024

Annual Results Report 2022-2023

The United Nations System in Tanzania comprises 23 UN agencies that work closely with the Government and other stakeholders to support the achievement of national development priorities and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The UN uses its comparative advantage to promote policy coherence, leverage partnerships, foster learning in development, and enable the provision of quality services for the poorest and most vulnerable.The results from this report are coordinated efforts by UN agencies, funds, and programmes across the four outcome areas of our UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) 2022-2027.As we progress into the second year of the UNSDCF’s implementation, we are encouraged to report that we largely achieve our objectives in all four areas. We sincerely thank the Government, development partners, implementing partners, and the communities we serve for their enduring partnership and invaluable contribution to our mission., filtered_html

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Publication

31 July 2023

Chasing Dreams, Creating Impact

Welcome to our coffee table book, a unique collection of human interest stories woven from the experiences of beneficiaries from the United Nations’ work in Tanzania. These stories, raw and powerful, serve as a testament to the transformative impact of our work and are an invitation to glimpse into the lives we touch every day. This book is categorized according to the five ‘Ps’ of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) – People, Prosperity, Planet, Peace, and Partnerships. These elements form the backbone of the United Nations’ approach to achieving a better and more sustainable future for all. Each chapter explores stories under one of these thematic areas, showcasing how our initiatives, developed and implemented in partnership with the Tanzanian Government and communities, have led to meaningful changes. As you turn the pages, you will meet individuals and communities who, with a helping hand from the UN and partners, have embraced challenges, turning them into opportunities, and are actively contributing to the broader vision of Tanzania’s development and the SDGs. This coffee book is not just about the UN’s work; it is a celebration of the strength and spirit of the Tanzanian people. It is a tribute to the communities that we serve, who are the heroes of these narratives, continually inspiring us to strive for a world that leaves no one behind. Welcome to their journey, and ours, towards a brighter, more equitable future. , filtered_html

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Story

05 February 2025

Empowered Voices: FGM Survivor Shares Her Journey to Freedom in Tarime, Mara

In the heart of Tarime, a small village in the Mara region, a remarkable young woman named *Amina stands as a beacon of hope. A survivor of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), Amina's journey is one of resilience, empowerment, and the fight for a better future.Growing up in a rural community, Amina, like many young girls, faced the harsh realities of cultural traditions, including FGM. In her early teens, she was subjected to the painful practice of FGM, a rite of passage that, for many years, was seen as an essential part of growing up as a woman in her community. But for Amina, the traumatic experience was the beginning of her determination to challenge harmful norms.“I didn’t understand why it was done to me,” Amina shares, her voice steady despite the pain of her past. “I felt like I had no control over my own body. But I knew I had to fight for the girls coming after me.”Amina’s story is not one of silence but one of defiance. With the support of her family and local community leaders, she joined forces with others advocating for the end of FGM in Mara, where prevalence remains high at 28%. Recognizing the need for collective action, Amina has helped build alliances among grassroots activists, government officials, and civil society groups. She mobilizes coalitions led by survivors, youth, and men, ensuring that the fight against FGM is sustained and amplified.Today, Amina mentors other survivors, helping them access resources to rebuild their lives. “When I look at the girls I helped today, I see strength. I see hope,” says Amina. “We are fighting for a future where no girl has to suffer like we did.” Progress in the Fight Against FGM in TanzaniaIn recent years, significant progress has been made in Tanzania’s fight against FGM, particularly in Manyara, Dodoma, and Mara regions. According to a recent government report, the prevalence of FGM has seen a marked decline over the past few years, thanks to tireless advocacy, education, and multi-stakeholder efforts.The Minister for Community Development, Gender, Women, and Special Groups, Dr. Dorothy Gwajima, provided an update on the efforts to combat FGM during the commeoration International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM, celebrated every February 6.Dr. Gwajima shared that between 2015 and 2023, Manyara saw a decrease in FGM prevalence from 58% to 43%, Dodoma dropped from 41% to 18%, and Mara saw a decrease from 32% to 28%. Dr. Gwajima credited these reductions to community engagement, government initiatives, and partnerships with organizations like UNFPA.“Though we still have work to do, the decline in FGM rates in Manyara, Dodoma, and Mara shows that change is possible,” Dr. Gwajima stated. “The efforts of individuals like Amina and local organizations are critical to these successes. We are committed to continuing these efforts until FGM is eradicated in all regions.”However, despite the progress, Manyara and Arusha still have high prevalence rates at 43%, followed by Mara at 28%. These numbers highlight the need for continued investment in the implementation of the National Plan of Action to End Violence Against Women and Children and the National Anti-FGM Strategy. Strengthening legal enforcement, ensuring justice for survivors, and providing necessary care remain essential. UNFPA’s Role in the Fight Against FGMUNFPA Tanzania Representative, Mr. Mark Bryan Schreiner, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts between the government, local communities, and civil society.“The reduction of FGM cases throughout Tanzania is a testament to the collective work being done to protect girls and empower communities,” Mr. Schreiner said. “We must continue strengthening efforts to eliminate FGM and ensure no girl is subjected to this harmful practice.”UNFPA supports community mobilization, survivor assistance, and awareness campaigns challenging harmful cultural norms. By empowering local leaders, women, and youth, UNFPA contributes to gender equality and reproductive health access across Tanzania. But achieving this requires collective action. Ending FGM demands the involvement of girls, women, survivors, men, youth, traditional and religious leaders, governments, private sector actors, and donors. A Bright Future AheadAs Amina’s story demonstrates, the fight against FGM is far from over. But through collective action, resilience, and dedication, Tanzania is making remarkable strides toward the elimination of FGM. While there is still much work to be done, the stories of survivors like Amina remind us that change is not only possible—it’s already happening. “I’m proud of the progress we’ve made, but I know we can do even more,” Amina says with determination. “Together, we can end FGM for good.”The theme for 2025, "Stepping Up the Pace: Strengthening Alliances and Building Movements to End FGM," underscores the urgency of accelerating action, increasing investment, fostering partnerships, and centering survivor voices. UNFPA Tanzania remains committed to supporting survivors and communities in creating a world where all girls grow up free from violence, fear, and harm., filtered_html

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04 February 2025

Uplifting Lives: A Transformative Initiative in Tanzania's Coastal Communities- Bagamoyo.

"I used to practice seaweed farming, but with the training from UNDP and the Institute of Rural Development Planning (IRDP) on seaweed, sea cucumbers, and crab farming, I’ve learned that we can produce many products, including fibers, oil, and soap from seaweed and crab shells," says Jumanne Ramadhani, a member of the Bagamoyo Entrepreneurs group, which includes 33 women and 7 men. This group has been supported by the Bahari Maisha - Raising the Blue Flag project, a collaboration with UNDP’s #PartnersatCore.In the vibrant coastal communities of Tanzania, where azure waters meet sandy shores, this transformative initiative is set to change lives. The project is not just about economic growth; it represents a bold commitment to uplifting women and youth, who are the backbone of these communities. Imagine a future where traditional fishing practices are revitalized, seaweed farming thrives, and eco-tourism flourishes—not as isolated efforts, but as interconnected pathways to sustainable prosperity. With a focus on harnessing the potential of the blue economy, the project is unlocking new opportunities while ensuring the preservation of fragile coastal ecosystems for future generations. Seaweed farming.“With the training from UNDP, I now have bigger goals and plans. I intend to have my own factory someday, where I can produce packaging and other products,” Jumanne continues. “The response to using seaweed has been great—so far, we’ve produced over 50 soaps and 50 oils within one week of receiving training.”Despite seaweed’s immense potential, many community members remain unaware of its full value. While the government is working to raise awareness, more efforts are needed to educate residents about its diverse uses and benefits. Promoting the sale of seaweed is important, but so is emphasizing its many applications in products such as soap, oil, and even food. “Before, we planted seaweed in areas where the water would recede and never return. But after receiving training, we’ve made great progress and are achieving success. We want to enhance our agricultural practices as a backup. In processing seaweed, we aim to improve our packaging for products like soap and shampoo. So far, we’ve successfully created mosquito repellents from seaweed. Currently, we are exploring ways to incorporate seaweed into chocolates and sweets for children. Our goal is to meet international standards and sell our products globally,” said Mrs. Shishira from the Kazi ni Kazi group, which consists of 8 women focused on seaweed and sea cucumber farming.Crab Farming – Bagamoyo The impact of this initiative is also seen in crab farming in Bagamoyo. James Mihayo, a member of the Kiwawaba group, is seeing firsthand how the training has improved the efficiency and sustainability of their operations. "These trainings have been beneficial in providing employment opportunities and expanding different projects, which assist in income generation and improving sustainable.This initiative is a powerful example of how targeted training and support can transform lives in coastal communities. By focusing on sustainable practices, such as seaweed farming and crab cultivation, and encouraging eco-friendly innovation, the project is not only empowering women and youth but also contributing to the preservation of Tanzania’s coastal ecosystems. As these communities continue to harness the potential of the blue economy, they are setting the stage for a future of greater economic independence and environmental stewardship. With ongoing support, these efforts will undoubtedly inspire other regions to follow suit, driving broader change for sustainable development. , filtered_html

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Story

04 February 2025

UNDP Expands Energy Efficiency Program, Awarding 25 New Scholarships to Young Women

In November 2024, UNDP celebrated a significant milestone in the implementation of Tanzania’s 1st Energy Efficiency Action Plan by awarding scholarships to 25 young women, bringing the total number of beneficiaries to 35. This expansion marks a substantial increase from the previous cohort and underscores the growing commitment to empowering women in the field of sustainable energy.The scholarship program, jointly supported by the EU, the Embassy of Ireland, and UNDP, is a key component of Tanzania's broader efforts to promote energy efficiency and gender equality in STEM fields. The awarding ceremony at the Dar es Salaam Institute of Technology (DIT) highlighted the dedication of the government and its international partners to ensuring young women have access to quality education and opportunities in the energy sector. By focusing on sustainable energy engineering, the initiative aims to create a new generation of experts who will play a crucial role in shaping the country's energy future.The increase in scholarship recipients from 10 in the previous cohort to 25 in this round demonstrates the program's success and the growing interest among young women in pursuing careers in sustainable energy. This expansion is a testament to the positive impact of the initiative and its potential to transform the energy sector in Tanzania. As these 35 young women embark on their academic journey, they are set to become pioneers in energy efficiency and sustainable practices, contributing significantly to Tanzania's goals of ensuring access to affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy for all citizens. The collaborative efforts of the Tanzanian government, DIT, and international partners are paving the way for a more inclusive and sustainable energy future in the country., filtered_html

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Story

04 February 2025

From Coding to Community: Two Young Women Tackling Violence Against Women and Girls in Zanzibar

In 2023, Asma and Maryam attended a coding camp in Zanzibar as part of the African Girls Can Code Initiative “Binti Dijitali” program in Tanzania, an intensive two-week training camp aimed to equip participants with essential digital literacy and leadership skills while also raising their awareness on gender equality and women’s empowerment, including violence against women and girls (VAWG).When they returned to their village of Mambosasa in western Zanzibar, they were determined to share the knowledge they had gained with others.“We learned a lot about coding and robotics and got to connect and share what we learned with others,” Asma shared.Months later, Asma and Maryam were invited to attend a workshop under the UN Women project on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls (EVAWG) in Zanzibar, supported by the European Union Delegation to Tanzania.“The session taught us about sexual harassment and discrimination, which are very common in our society and in vocational training centers. We also learned about tech-facilitated violence and online sexual harassment,” Asma explained.In Zanzibar, the 2022 Tanzania Demographic Health Survey reports that 8.4% of women and girls over the age of 15 have experienced physical violence, and 6.7% have experienced sexual violence in their lifetime. As part of interventions to address this, the UN Women EVAWG project is building the capacity of staff and instructors at vocational training centers (VTCs) in Zanzibar on issues of gender discrimination, sexual harassment, and abuse. Armed with the new knowledge they gained, Asma and Maryam began working with the EVAWG project to raise awareness about violence against women and girls at the local VTC, where they teach sign language and use the classes as a platform to pass on what they had learned about violence and discrimination.They’re using their skills to raise awareness among previously unreached audiences: “We made it a point to hold meetings with women in our area living with disabilities as they are often overlooked,” Maryam said.Their work, they say, has not been without its challenges. As young women, their community is not always quick to give them an audience.“When we first try to talk to people about harassment and discrimination, they tell us we are bothering them. But as we continue with our awareness sessions, we see them start to listen, and sometimes they even approach us later to ask more questions,” Asma added.Aside from raising awareness about sexual harassment and discrimination, Asma and Maryam are also championing the rights of persons living with disabilities and are also using their sign language skills and knowledge to support persons with hearing disabilities at the district courts when they have a gender-based violence (GBV) related case.“By helping people with hearing disabilities gain better access to their rights, we’re beginning to see many positive changes,” says Maryam.The EU-funded project on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls aims to integrate effective, evidence-based violence prevention and response into existing local systems. In partnership with the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar and local authorities, the project strengthens local actors’ capacities to promote freedom from all forms of gender-based violence and create safe spaces in tertiary education and communities.“We chose to work with Asma and Maryam after the Binti Dijitali program because of their passion and willingness to help others,” said Jesca Msafiri, UN Women Tanzania’s Programme Officer for Ending Violence Against Women. “As young women in vocational training, they are well-positioned to help us reach more people, especially youth in VTCs, who are greatly affected by sexual harassment and discrimination.”Asma and Maryam are optimistic about the future. “Change doesn’t come suddenly. It starts with each person taking the challenge to go and tell someone else so that change can happen,” Asma said., filtered_html

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04 February 2025

More Financing for Startups as UNDP’s FUNGUO Programme pushes its commitments to over TZS 5 billion.

UNDP’s FUNGUO Programme, in collaboration with CRDB Bank’s iMBEJU initiative, proudly introduced its third cohort of 18 exceptional startups and SMEs in November 2024, signalling a significant step forward in nurturing Tanzanian entrepreneurship. This cohort, selected through a rigorous process from over 400 applications received nationwide, reflects the growing momentum of innovation in Tanzania. The funding pool, totalling TZS 1.45 billion in FUNGUO Catalytic Grants and TZS 355 million in iMBEJU Soft Loans, highlights the commitment to fostering businesses that drive job creation, empower youth, and advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).This partnership combines the transformative power of FUNGUO’s non-repayable grants, funded by the European Union, with iMBEJU’s reimbursable grants, creating a robust support system for Tanzanian startups. With 40% of the funds allocated to women-led or women-founded businesses, the initiative reaffirming its dedication to gender inclusivity, recognizing the crucial role women play in driving innovation and economic growth.The selected startups span diverse sectors such as agriculture, energy, healthcare, circular economy, and financial services, many leveraging technologies to tackle pressing societal challenges. These businesses are not only creating sustainable solutions but also generating employment opportunities, particularly for youth. FUNGUO’s impact speaks volumes past cohorts have collectively secured TZS 15.5 billion in additional funding and created over 4,000 direct and indirect jobs. The latest cohort is poised to build on this remarkable success.In addition to funding, the startups will receive tailored technical assistance, exposure to showcasing opportunities, and support with investment profiling to fuel their growth and attract further financing. By fostering innovation and empowering entrepreneurs, FUNGUO and iMBEJU are paving the way for a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem in Tanzania, driving the country’s economic and social progress., filtered_html

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Press Release

28 October 2024

UN, Govt Launch Data for Digital Agricultural Transformation Joint Programme

The Government of the United Republic of Tanzania and the United Nations officially launched a joint programme on (2024-27) that aims to harness digital technologies to transform Tanzania’s agricultural sector, improving productivity and resilience for rural communities, particularly women and youth. This USD 3 million initiative, which is supported by the European Union (EU) through the United Nations Joint SDG Fund, will implement digital platforms to provide real-time agricultural data, support smallholder farmers with better access to information, improve market access and enhance decision-making. The joint programme, under the overall leadership of the Ministry of Agriculture and the UN Resident Coordinator in Tanzania, will initially be rolled out in the regions of Dodoma, Kigoma, Ruvuma, and Manyara, targeting communities most in need of agricultural support, creating sustainable digital solutions, improving agricultural infrastructure, and fostering collaboration across sectors to transform agriculture. UNCDF (the lead UN agency for the programme), FAO, and IFAD will work closely with the Ministry of Agriculture, other key Government organizations and other stakeholders, to collectively drive the programme's success and achieve its objectives.
Highlighting the importance of leveraging partnerships to address agricultural challenges through innovative solutions, Head of the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office, Ms. Shabnam Mallick, stated: "This joint programme demonstrates the strength of the partnership between the United Nations and the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania. Together, with the generous support of the European Union and other contributors to the Joint SDG Fund, we are working towards empowering communities and decision-makers with the data and technologies needed to accelerate the sustainable development of the agricultural sector." Background Information:The Data for Digital Agricultural Transformation Joint Programme is funded by the United Nations Joint SDG Fund under the Digital High-Impact Track. It is a partnership between the Government of Tanzania and UN agencies, with the goal of accelerating the use of digital innovation to address agricultural challenges, boost productivity, and promote inclusive economic growth.This Joint Programme is made possible thanks to the generous contributions to the Joint SDG Fund from the European Union and the Governments of Belgium, Denmark, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Monaco, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Republic of Korea, Saudi Arabia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. Their support is driving a transformative movement towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. , filtered_html

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Press Release

01 October 2024

Charting a New Course for Global Collaboration: Tanzania and the United Nations Lead the Way

As we approach the Summit of the Future, Tanzania, in partnership with the United Nations, is taking decisive steps to ensure its citizens' voices are at the forefront of global discussions. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Tanzania and the United Nations in Tanzania have joined forces to create an inclusive platform that connects national development dialogues with global aspirations. This collaboration is a testament to the power of partnerships in shaping a future that benefits all.Inclusive Consultations for a Stronger FutureOver the past few months, the UN and the Government of Tanzania have worked hand in hand to ensure that all segments of Tanzanian society, including youth, persons with disabilities (PWDs), civil society organizations (CSOs) are actively contributing to the preparation for the Summit of the Future. These consultations have brought together diverse stakeholders, ensuring that Tanzania’s delegation will carry with them the perspectives, hopes, and challenges of its people.Notably, consultations with over 500 young Tanzanians have been instrumental in linking the aspirations of the youth with the broader national agenda of Tanzania Development Vision 2050 (TDV 2050). These sessions enabled young people to voice their aspirations and foster creative innovations to directly contribute to the drafting of TDV 2050. The insights gained from these discussions will ensure that Tanzania’s future development blueprint resonates with the ambitions of its youth and future generations, in line with global trends and prioritiesBringing Marginalized Voices to the ForefrontIn our commitment to leaving no one behind, the Ministry and the UN have placed a strong emphasis on inclusivity. Consultations involving persons with disabilities (PWDs) and the organizations that support them have highlighted the unique challenges faced by this community. By engaging PWDs in the national dialogue ahead of the Summit, we have ensured that Tanzania’s contribution to global discussions will reflect the importance of accessibility and inclusivity.Similarly, civil society organizations from across the country have been key contributors to the national dialogue. Representatives from 10 regions came together to discuss how Tanzania can contribute to global efforts towards effective multilateralism. This inclusive platform has reinforced the importance of networked governance, and the diverse perspectives shared will inform Tanzania’s stance at the global Summit.Media as a Catalyst for Public EngagementThe media has played a pivotal role in raising awareness about the Summit of the Future and its significance for Tanzania. A dedicated media consultation is being organized to equip senior journalists with the tools to effectively communicate the relevance of the Summit to the Tanzanian public. With their help, public awareness of the Summit will grow, fostering a broader understanding of sustainable development and the importance of Tanzania’s engagement on the global stage. Toward a Unified Global FutureAs we prepare to present Tanzania’s vision at the Summit of the Future, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the United Nations are committed to ensuring that the voices of all Tanzanians are heard. The consultations we have conducted, the partnerships we have forged, and the diversity we have embraced are all vital to the success of our nation’s participation in this historic event.The Summit presents a unique opportunity for Tanzania to demonstrate its commitment to sustainable development, inclusivity, and global collaboration. We believe that by aligning our national aspirations with the broader global agenda, we can contribute meaningfully to a pact for the future that prioritizes peace, prosperity, and inclusivity for all.Together, let us embrace this opportunity to build a stronger, more resilient Tanzania, and a more unified global community.Authors:Hon. Mahmoud Thabit Kombo, Minister of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, United Republic of TanzaniaMark Bryan Schreiner, Resident Coordinator a.i, United Nations in Tanzania, filtered_html

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Press Release

26 September 2024

New Cross-Border Project Launched to Support Burundian Refugees in Tanzania and Burundi

Nyarugusu Camp, Kigoma Region – The Government of the United Republic of Tanzania, the Government of the Republic of Burundi, the European Union (EU), the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), in collaboration with the International Rescue Committee (IRC), Danish Refugee Council (DRC), and Icirore c' Amahoro (ICCA), together with refugees launched today a four-year project aimed at strengthening the protection and resilience of Burundian refugees in Tanzania and returnees in Burundi. Funded by the European Union (EU) with a contribution of EUR 8 million (USD 8.8 million), the project runs from 1 October 2023 to 30 September 2027 and will support 338,579 Burundian refugees in the Nyarugusu and Nduta camps, as well as host communities in Tanzania’s Kigoma region. The project will focus on improving access to civil documentation, providing quality education for returnees, and enhancing vocational skills. The project also seeks to overcome critical barriers to the voluntary return of Burundian refugees and help them rebuild their lives back home. “There is no doubt that the current situation in Burundi warrants the return of the Burundian refugee, but we have observed the hesitation of some Burundian refugees to return home. In this regard, as we welcome the support from the EU, we must understand that Burundian refugee situation in Tanzania is unique, necessitating a unique approach to dealing with it. The Government of Tanzania is willing to engage in discussions to find an agreeable approach to establish a common ground in finding durable solution for all Burundian refugees hosted in Tanzania by 2025,” said Hon. Thobias Andengenye, Kigoma Regional Commissioner, Tanzania. The project will help returnees in Burundi access essential civil documentation, reintegrate into the local education system, and recognize vocational training certificates earned in Tanzania. It will also strengthen legal and protection services in Burundi by building local capacities to ensure these services continue after refugees return.“This project reflects the European Union’s strong and unwavering commitment to working alongside the Tanzanian government to protect and support refugees who have sought safety in Tanzania. We are dedicated to upholding their dignity and helping them rebuild their lives in a secure environment,” said Christine Grau, EU Ambassador to Tanzania.For her part, Elisabetta Pietrobon, EU Ambassador to Burundi said: ‘’The voluntary return and reintegration of Burundian refugees from Tanzania to Burundi is a key step towards promoting peace, stability, and development in the Great Lakes region. The program will benefit directly more than 96,000 refugees, 4,800 members of hosting communities and 52,000 returnees.’’“For repatriating Burundian refugees, skills acquired in Tanzania will help them with reintegration and adaptability back home as they will have an opportunity to put their skills to use and also train members of their community as a way of contributing to strengthening their communities back home,” Zulqarnain Hussain Anjum, UNHCR Deputy Representative in Tanzania.UNHCR appreciates the EU’s support in finding durable solutions for Burundian refugees in the region and for joining hands with other development actors to rebuild Burundian lives for a peaceful and sustainable future.“The consortium of NGO implementing partners is committed to combining their efforts and respective expertise in a complementary and synergistic action aimed at providing lasting solutions to the Burundian refugee crisis in the Great Lakes region,” said Valentin Lubunga Kibukila, IRC Country Director in Burundi.Since the start of the voluntary repatriation exercise in September 2017, more than 177,000 refugees have returned home to Burundi from Tanzania. As of the end of August 2024, around 145,000 Burundian refugees are hosted in Tanzania.“The reintegration needs remain huge. We still need more financial support for voluntary return and the reintegration of for former refugees in Burundi. The EU cross border project is a timely and significant contribution to a smooth reintegration of Burundian returnees,” said, Brigitte Mukanga-Eno, UNHCR Representative in Burundi.For more information, please contact:Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of Tanzania – Information Officer, Ministry of Home Affairs, akyabubakar@gmail.com EU – Tony Nsabimana, Communications Officer, tony.nsabimana@eeas.europa.eu UNHCR – Bahia Egeh, External Relations Officer, egehb@unhcr.org IRC, on behalf of the NGO consortium – Thierry Niyonshemeza, Communications Officer, thierry.niyonshemeza@rescue.org, filtered_html

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Press Release

28 May 2024

UN Headquarters Observes International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers on 30 May

UN Headquarters will observe the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers on Thursday, 30 May 2024. In 1948, the historic decision was made to deploy military observers to the Middle East to supervise the implementation of Israel-Arab Armistice Agreements, in what became the United Nations Truce Supervision Organization. Since that time, more than two million peacekeepers from 125 countries have since served in 71 operations around the world. Today, some 76,000 women and men are serving in 11 conflict zones across Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.Tanzania is the 11th largest contributor of uniformed personnel to UN Peacekeeping. It currently deploys more than 1,500 military and police personnel to the UN peacekeeping operations in the Abyei, the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Lebanon, and South Sudan.During formal ceremonies at United Nations Headquarters, Secretary-General, António Guterres, will lay a wreath to honour all UN peacekeepers who have lost their lives since 1948. He will also preside over a ceremony in the Trusteeship Council Chamber, at which Dag Hammarskjöld Medals will be awarded posthumously to 64 military, police, and civilian peacekeepers, who lost their lives serving under the UN flag, including 61 who perished last year.Among the peacekeepers to be honoured posthumously with the Dag Hammarskjold medal are three from Tanzania: SSGT Justine Simwilwa EZEBIUS who served with the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA); LT John Anthony MAGOIGA who was deployed with the UN Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO); and Mr. Tasokwa CHIUME who served in a civilian capacity with the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).The Secretary-General will also present the 2023 Military Gender Advocate of the Year Award to Major Radhika Sen, a military officer from India, who served with the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO). Created in 2016, the Award “recognizes the dedication and effort of an individual peacekeeper in promoting the principles of UN Security Council resolution 1325 (2000) on women, peace and security”.In his message, the Secretary-General said: “Today we pay tribute to the more than 76,000 United Nations peacekeepers who embody humanity’s highest ideal: peace. Day in and day out, at great personal risk, these women and men bravely work in some of the most dangerous and unstable places on earth to protect civilians, uphold human rights, support elections and strengthen institutions. More than 4,300 peacekeepers have paid the ultimate price while serving under the UN flag. We will never forget them.”The theme for 2024 International Day of UN Peacekeepers is “Fit for the future, building better together.” The theme denotes that while UN Peacekeeping has proven to be part of the solution for over 75 years -- assisting host countries in navigating the difficult path from conflict to peace -- the Secretary-General’s New Agenda for Peace policy brief sets out a path for multilateral peace and security operations to remain viable tools to address future crises and conflict.“UN Peacekeeping remains a unique global partnership, with peacekeepers from over 120 countries making a meaningful difference every day to millions of people in some of the most world's most difficult places,” said Jean-Pierre Lacroix, Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations. "As we respond to tomorrow's challenges, UN Peacekeeping continues to evolve, leveraging partnerships to be nimble, responsive and fit-for-purpose, promote stability, protect the vulnerable and help to build a durable peace.”The International Day of UN Peacekeepers was established by the UN General Assembly in 2002, to pay tribute to all men and women serving in peacekeeping, and to honour the memory of those who have lost their lives in the cause of peace. # # # # #Media Contacts: Douglas Coffman, Department of Global Communications -+1 (917) 361-9923, e-mail: coffmand@un.org; or Hector Calderon, hector.calderon@un.org or Aditya Mehta, mehta2@un.org from the Department of Peace Operations .For more information, please visit the Peacekeepers Day websites here: https://www.un.org/en/observances/peacekeepers-day; or https://peacekeeping.un.org/en/international-day-of-un-peacekeepers-2024-0 * * * * *, filtered_html

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Press Release

12 February 2024

Japan and UNHCR sign $360,000 agreement for emergency assistance for Congolese new arrivals in Tanzania

“While Japan, together with UNHCR, will make efforts to support Tanzania, I sincerely hope that the government of Tanzania will also continue playing an important role to provide protection as well as the necessary care to refugees in accordance with international humanitarian laws. By working together, we can make a tangible impact on the lives of refugees, ensuring a brighter and more secure future,” said H.E Mr. Yasushi Misawa, Ambassador of Japan to Tanzania.
In 2023, UNHCR and its national and international partners supported the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania to receive over 14,400 new arrivals in Kigoma region who were provided with a safe place to sleep, food, water, and other life-saving assistance. Often refugees and forcibly displaced people who flee arrive with little more than the clothes they are wearing and the few belongings they can carry in their arms. Access to shelter, water, sanitation facilities, and essential items for hygiene promotion becomes vital to reducing mortality and morbidity, and enhancing new arrivals’ protection, dignity, and quality of life.
“Last year, I was in Kigoma and in Nyarugusu refugee camp where I spoke to men, women, and children who fled from the DRC. They were people like you and me, desperate, crying for their dead and missing family, friends, and neighbours. The very timely contribution from Japan will allow us to help refugees live dignified lives in displacement,” said Ms. Mahoua Parums, UNHCR’s Representative in Tanzania.
UNHCR requires USD 8 million to respond to the DRC emergency in Tanzania and appeals for more humanitarian and international community support as needs persist. As of 31 December 2023, Tanzania hosts over 240,000 refugees, mainly from Burundi and the DRC. UNHCR remains deeply grateful for the people and Government of the United Republic of Tanzania who have set a global example in welcoming refugees. Continued solidarity with both the refugees and the host communities is vital. END , filtered_html

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