The Vice President of Tanzania, Dr Philip Mpango, has urged faith-based institutions to play a key role in guiding young people, promoting ethical values, and using technology responsibly to strengthen society.
Dr Mpango made the remarks during a special service marking the 50th anniversary of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania (ELCT) Pare Diocese in Same District, Kilimanjaro Region. He said religious institutions remain vital in shaping responsible and morally upright citizens.
“Faith institutions must teach the true Word of God, condemn wrongdoing, uphold justice, and lead by example. Through these efforts, the Church contributes directly to a responsible and ethical society,” Dr Mpango said.
The Vice President highlighted the opportunities presented by the digital era, urging the Church, parents, and communities to harness information and communication technology (ICT) to spread the Gospel and deliver essential services.
At the same time, he stressed the need to equip youth with skills to use technology safely and productively.
Dr Mpango encouraged young people to balance online engagement with face-to-face activities such as sports, arts, cultural, and religious programs, which foster personal growth and community cohesion.
“The digital world offers access to education, information, and communication like never before, but it also brings risks, including online bullying, harmful content, hate messages, and mental health challenges. Our duty is to guide young people to make responsible choices,” he said.
While acknowledging the Church’s progress in evangelism and community service, Dr Mpango noted persistent social and moral challenges, including family breakdowns, corruption, substance abuse, and environmental degradation.
He called for continued collaboration to address these issues and urged the preservation of natural resources to combat climate change.
He commended the Pare Diocese for environmental initiatives, including avocado and orange farming and planting indigenous trees in partnership with Forest Focus.
He also praised the strong collaboration between the government and faith-based institutions in sectors such as education, health, and water provision.
Dr Mpango urged all eligible Tanzanians to participate in the upcoming general elections at the end of October, exercising their democratic right while maintaining peace and stability.
Delivering the sermon, ELCT Presiding Bishop Dr Alex Malasusa called on Tanzanians to thank God for the country’s peace.
He urged believers to participate actively in the elections and serve as ambassadors of tolerance, unity, and stability, while continuing to pray for Tanzania’s growth and harmony.