Dodoma, Tanzania — February 7, 2026 Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s administration has unveiled a Sh200 billion fund aimed at economically empowering youth and women, marking a significant pledge within the first 100 days of her presidency.
The fund, which targets sectors including agriculture, fisheries, arts, and start — ups, represents a shift in the country’s approach to youth and women financing initiatives.
According to official statements, the fund is a response to past failures in distributing economic empowerment schemes effectively.
The government has previously faced criticism for weak oversight, politically influenced approvals, and low recovery rates.
The Prime Minister, Mwigulu Nchemba, acknowledged these challenges, emphasizing the need to prevent funds from being misused or failing to reach intended beneficiaries.
The new fund will be channeled through commercial banks, starting with CRDB Bank Foundation, which has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the newly created Ministry of Youth.
This move aims to improve transparency and prevent the mismanagement of funds that has been a persistent issue in the past. Despite the optimism surrounding the fund, there remains skepticism about its ability to make a tangible difference.
Asha Mwasonga, a poultry farmer from Morogoro, is one of many who have experienced the disappointment of past schemes. “.
You start asking yourself what you are missing, “she said reflecting the broader concerns about systemic distortions and favoritism. Civil society organizations are playing a crucial role in supporting women-led groups with legal and financial guidance.
Doreen Kalugira, Director of Women of Influence, emphasizes that economic empowerment goes beyond accessing funds and requires legal certification, sustainability, and confidence.
The establishment of the Ministry of Youth Affairs, led by Joel Arthur Nanauka, is seen as a step towards addressing the specific needs of young people.
However, the ministry faces the challenge of rebuilding trust in institutions that have been historically ineffective.
The Sh200 billion fund stands as both a symbol of hope and a test of the government’s commitment to transforming the lives of Tanzania’s youth and women.
Its success will depend on the government’s ability to implement transparent and effective policies, ensure that funds reach intended beneficiaries, and build a sustainable economic empowerment model. Further details are expected as the new fund begins to be distributed, and the government continues its efforts to address the economic challenges faced by the youth and women of Tanzania.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 4*
