Gender activists call for more inclusive financial planning

Dar es Salaam. Gender activists claim that the recently presented budget has not sufficiently incorporated a gender-sensitive perspective, urging for a more inclusive approach to financial planning.

These comments were made during the ‘Kijiwe cha Kahawa’ (Coffee Corner) dialogue organised by the Tanzania Gender Networking Programme (TGNP) to discuss the 2025/2026 National Budget from a gender perspective.

Mr Mofati Mapunda, a resident of Dar es Salaam, stated that budget reports, particularly those related to the gross domestic product, are often confusing since crucial issues affecting women remain unaddressed.

“For instance, while we discuss progress in water access, pipes have indeed been laid, but water has not yet reached people's homes. Even for those who are connected, accessing it remains a struggle. Moreover, when discussing water scarcity in schools, it directly impacts the girl child, as a girl’s need for water is more critical than a boy’s,” he explained.

Ms Clara Kalanga, TGNP’s acting director and head of programs, emphasised that the purpose of the dialogue is to stimulate positive policy and operational changes through a gender-based analysis of the national budget.

“We are here not only to observe the budget but also to evaluate its implementation by considering the challenges faced by marginalised groups – including women, youth, people with disabilities, and low-income men,” said the director.

Mr Jummnne Sako, a resident of Dodoma, highlighted the urgent need for the government to address unemployment, particularly among the youth. He noted that even though agriculture is viewed as a potential solution for youth employment, persistent land conflicts discourage them from engaging in agricultural work.

Ms Lisa Kabeta, an assistant lecturer at Mzumbe University, acknowledged the government's efforts in controlling inflation, as this provides relief to low-income citizens.

However, she pointed out that while the economy seems to be growing, poverty remains a significant issue in the country, with 43 out of every 100 people living in poverty.

“This situation is a result of the vast inequality between the rich and the poor. Therefore, various methods should be employed, including promoting income equality, to ensure that every Tanzanian can benefit from this economic growth,” she explained.

Ms Anna Kikwa, a member of the TGNP Network, recognised the visible progress in the increasing number of schools and the implementation of free education.

However, she pointed out flaws in its execution, such as an insufficient number of teachers relative to the student population, along with a lack of books.