In a move to improve citizens’ welfare and strengthen the national economy, the Sixth Phase Government, under President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, is intensifying efforts to promote financial literacy.
The initiative will be showcased during the National Financial Services Week, scheduled to take place in Tanga from January 19 to 26, 2026.
Organized by the Ministry of Finance, the week-long celebrations will be officially opened by the Minister of Finance, Ambassador Khamis Mussa Omar (MP), at Usagara Grounds, Tanga City.
The program aims to empower citizens to increase income, reduce poverty, and contribute to national economic growth through effective use of formal financial services.
Speaking on behalf of the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Acting Commissioner of the Financial Sector Development Department, Ms. Dionisia Mjema, said the initiative is part of the Financial Sector Development Master Plan 2020/21–2029/30, which seeks to build a strong, inclusive, and impactful financial sector.
During the week, participants will engage in exhibitions of financial products and services, seminars, and digital platforms offering financial education.
The Ministry has partnered with government agencies, financial regulators, private sector actors, NGOs, media, educational and research institutions, and faith-based organizations providing financial services.
Ms. Mjema emphasized that public financial education is a government priority. The Public Financial Education Program 2021/22–2025/26 covers essential topics such as personal financial management, savings, loans, investments, insurance, taxation, and government bonds, equipping citizens to make informed financial decisions.
The government aims to ensure that by 2030, about 80 percent of Tanzanians have financial literacy. According to the 2023 FinScope Survey, only 53.5 percent of the workforce currently use formal financial services, highlighting the need for continued education.
Assistant Manager of Communications at the Bank of Tanzania (BoT), Ms. Noves Moses, said participants will also learn about investing in government securities, personal financial management, and how to submit complaints against financial institutions through the BoT’s digital platform, “SEMA BoT”, which ensures efficient resolution of issues.
The National Financial Services Week will target public servants, students, women, youth, people with special needs, SMEs, journalists, financial service providers, and the general public, promoting awareness of financial rights, responsibilities, and discipline for sustainable economic development.
This year’s theme is: “Financial Literacy: Foundation for Economic Development.” All services and educational activities during the week will be provided free of charge, reflecting the government’s commitment to inclusive growth.