How Tanzania’s youths are being mobilised to defend peace, union

ZANZIBAR: DESPITE a heavy downpour, the air was alive with chants, applause, and a renewed sense of purpose in Dombwe village, Tunguu, on the outskirts of Zanzibar City, recently, when young people from across Tanzania gathered not just to commemorate history, but to claim their place in shaping the nation’s future.

The occasion was the 62nd anniversary of the Union of Tanganyika and Zanzibar, a milestone that continues to define Tanzania’s identity. But this year’s message was clear and urgent: the future of that Union rests firmly in the hands of the youth.

Addressing the vibrant gathering, Samia Suluhu Hassan, who is also the National Chairperson of the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), delivered a powerful call for unity, solidarity, and vigilance. “Unity and cohesion are the destiny of this nation, and that destiny lies in your hands,” she told the crowd, her words met with cheers.

“If you stand together, no enemy will find a way through. But if you allow yourselves to be divided, you create that opening.” Her message struck a chord with many young attendees, who see themselves not only as beneficiaries of the Union but as its custodians. For them, the concept of “mshikamano”—solidarity, is not just a slogan, but a responsibility.

A Union beyond governments

President Samia was keen to emphasise that the Union is not merely a political arrangement between two governments, but a bond between people, families, communities, and generations.

Over the past six decades, Tanzanians from both sides of the Union have become deeply interconnected, forming what she described as “one family.” Protecting that family, she said, requires conscious effort, especially from the youth.

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“These achievements did not come by chance,” she noted, pointing to progress in economic growth, social services, culture, and national security. “They have been built, protected, and carried forward from one generation to another through unity.” That historical continuity now places a heavy but hopeful responsibility on young people.

Youths at the centre of development

Beyond calls for unity and peace, both leaders underscored a practical reality: youths are central to Tanzania’s development agenda. President Samia highlighted ongoing efforts to economically empower young people, expand leadership opportunities, and create an enabling political environment. She noted that youth-focused initiatives are being integrated across sectors rather than confined to a single ministry.

“It is not possible for all youth funds to be placed in one ministry,” she explained.

“Every sector must invest in youths and ensure their projects succeed.” This cross-sectoral approach reflects a broader shift in policy thinking—one that recognises youths not as a separate category, but as a driving force across all areas of national life. Dr Mwinyi reinforced this commitment, noting that both sides of the Union have established dedicated ministries and allocated resources to address youth challenges, including unemployment and skills gaps.

Mwinyi’s Message: Peace Is Non-Negotiable

Echoing similar sentiments, Hussein Ali Mwinyi, who also serves as CCM Vice-Chairman for Zanzibar, focused his message on the preservation of peace, arguably the Union’s most visible dividend. Speaking at the same conference organised by the Umoja wa Vijana wa CCM, Dr Mwinyi warned that young people are often the most targeted group when divisions arise.

“My call to you is to continue safeguarding peace and to resist any temptations that may lead to its breakdown,” he said. “You are the primary targets when challenges emerge, and you must stand firm.” His remarks come at a time when global and regional tensions have shown how quickly peace can unravel if not carefully protected. For Zanzibar and Tanzania at large, maintaining stability remains central to development ambitions.

A generation of custodians

For Asha-Rose Migiro, the message was equally clear: the Union’s survival depends on whether young people understand, value, and defend it. “The Union cannot survive on history alone,” she said. “It will endure only if the younger generation understands it, protects it, and passes it on.” She described the Union as a “blessing” not only for Tanzania but for Africa as a whole—a model of unity built on shared values rather than imposed structures.

Her call was for a new generation of leaders—ethical, patriotic, and committed to sustainable development, who can guide the country forward without losing sight of its foundational principles.

Voices from the youth

Among the participants, there was a palpable sense of pride and responsibility. Leaders from UVCCM reaffirmed their commitment to defending the Union and promoting national unity. UVCCM Chairman Mr Mohammed Kawaida pledged that young people would continue to act as guardians of the Union, ensuring its values are preserved for future generations.

Similarly, youths representative Khalid Mwinyi emphasised the importance of educating peers about the history and benefits of the Union, noting that awareness is key to sustaining it. While the anniversary provided a moment for reflection, leaders stressed that the real work lies ahead.

The theme of the conference, “Peace, Unity and Solidarity as the Foundation for Sustainable Development,” served as both a reminder and a call to action. For many young Tanzanians, the challenge is to translate these ideals into everyday practice: resisting divisive narratives, embracing diversity, and actively contributing to national development.

As the sun set over Tunguu, the energy of the gathering lingered, a mix of optimism and determination. Tanzania youths are stepping into a role defined not only by opportunity, but by responsibility. They are being called upon to safeguard a legacy built over 62 years, one rooted in unity, peace, and shared destiny.

In a world where divisions often dominate headlines, the message from Zanzibar is both simple and profound: unity is strength, and the future belongs to those willing to protect it.

The post How Tanzania’s youths are being mobilised to defend peace, union first appeared on Daily News.

The post How Tanzania’s youths are being mobilised to defend peace, union appeared first on Daily News.