On May 23, 2025, Minister for Communication and Information Technology and Ukonga MP, Mr. Jerry Silaa, has donated TZS 1.7 million to a community-based organization that offers financial education to low-income groups.
The donation was made to the Tanzania Savings and Credit Community Organization (TaSaCo), a non-governmental organization that helps local entrepreneurs through savings and loan services.
The support was provided during the official launch of the organization in Ukonga, Ilala District, Dar es Salaam.
The funds will help TaSaCo improve its rental services for chairs, tents, and cooking equipment, which are used during social events.
Silaa also donated a number of plastic chairs to the group to support their work.
“These chairs will help them in their daily community activities and during times when someone faces difficulties,” said Silaa.
He urged leaders in Ukonga to respond quickly when citizens face problems, stressing leadership that is not just about having money but also about being present during hard times.
“When a citizen is in trouble, they don’t look at how much money you have. They look at your commitment and your willingness to stand with them,” he said.
Silaa also advised members of TaSaCo to manage their money wisely. He warned that poor financial management could lead to failure of the group.
“Every person faces challenges. If someone borrows money from the group and fails to pay it back, it can harm the whole organization,” he explained.
TaSaCo Director, Mr. Paul Chegere, said the organization was formed to encourage unity and savings among community members. The aim is to support personal and community development through lending and saving.
“We believe our lives are stronger when we work together. Saving and lending among ourselves can help us grow personally, support our community, and develop our nation,” said Chegere.
He added that TaSaCo wants to help small business owners access opportunities, including financial and health services.
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“Our focus is on opportunities and empowerment. We want to connect with banks, health insurance providers, and other organizations to help people improve their lives,” he said.
Chegere also shared the group’s goal of helping informal workers join health insurance schemes so they can access affordable medical services.
TaSaCo brings together 57 savings and loan groups (VICOBA) with a total of 510 members. Most members have already benefited by improving their lives and starting small businesses.
The donation and launch of TaSaCo show the growing importance of community financial groups in Tanzania. These groups offer support to people who are not served by formal financial institutions.
As many Tanzanians work in the informal sector, organizations like TaSaCo play a key role in helping them save, borrow, and build a better future. Silaa’s support is a sign that government leaders recognize their value.
The event ended with a call for cooperation between community groups, government, and financial service providers to support economic growth at the grassroots level.