By Alfred Zacharia
The Federation of Tanzania Informal Traders (SHIUMA) has announced plans to amend its constitution, forming a special committee drawn from 15 unions across mainland Tanzania to spearhead the process.
Speaking to the press on September 11, 2024, in Dar es Salaam, SHIUMA Chairman Steven Lusinde said the constitutional changes are necessary after identifying significant shortcomings in the current version. The amendments are also being made following directives from the Registrar of Associations, urging SHIUMA to update its constitution to meet current and future demands.
Lusinde also noted that he plans to tour regions experiencing conflicts within the federation, pledging to resolve these issues in line with the sixth-phase government's vision of empowering informal traders. "We must ensure that SHIUMA operates smoothly and remains aligned with the government's goals of supporting machinga across the country," he emphasized.
The Chairman also touched on the distribution of special identification cards for informal traders, saying SHIUMA has welcomed the initiative but urged the government, through the relevant ministry, to provide proper education to traders. He stressed that this would ensure that entrepreneurs understand the importance of the cards and purchase them voluntarily, without pressure.
In recent engagements, Lusinde mentioned that SHIUMA representatives had met with the Commissioner of the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) to discuss the traders' concerns. The talks culminated in an agreement, with the traders expressing their willingness to pay taxes and contribute to the country's revenue.
Furthermore, SHIUMA announced plans to establish its own Savings and Credit Cooperative Society (SACCOS) to help traders access financial services and grow their businesses. Lusinde also urged all informal traders to register for the national voter roll and participate in upcoming elections, stressing the importance of selecting leaders who will advocate for their rights.
The constitutional reforms, combined with efforts to address the traders' issues, signify SHIUMA's commitment to advancing the welfare of Tanzania's informal sector, which plays a crucial role in the nation's economy.
