Tanga Region has taken a significant step toward expanding financial inclusion after more than 5,000 residents received training on formal financial services during the Fifth National Financial Services Week, held from January 19 to 26, 2026, at Usagara Grounds.
The initiative focused on encouraging citizens to shift from informal money practices to regulated financial systems, strengthening household financial security and supporting broader economic growth.
Closing the event, Tanga Regional Commissioner Ambassador Dr. Batilda Buriani said the programme had helped residents gain practical skills to make informed financial decisions, including saving, borrowing, investing and protecting their income through insurance.
“The strong turnout shows that citizens are increasingly recognizing the importance of financial knowledge. This education will help families manage money better, grow their businesses and contribute more effectively to the national economy,” she said.
Dr. Buriani added that the programme supports Tanzania’s long-term development goals under Vision 2050 and the Financial Sector Development Master Plan, which seeks to expand access to financial services and protect consumers.
Speaking on behalf of the Ministry of Finance Permanent Secretary, Acting Commissioner for Financial Sector Development Ms. Dionisia Mjema said the campaign forms part of a national effort to deepen financial inclusion and build a financially informed population.
She said that by December 2026, financial literacy programmes had been rolled out in 17 regions and 94 councils, reaching 64,125 citizens the majority being women.
“In Tanga Region alone, 5,350 participants were trained in personal financial management, responsible borrowing, savings, capital market investment, health and life insurance, taxation and retirement planning,” Ms. Mjema said.
She noted that the initiative has helped citizens understand their financial rights and responsibilities, reducing vulnerability to fraud and risky financial practices.
Participants said the training has already begun to change how they manage money.
Asha Mwinuka, a small-scale trader in Tanga, said the lessons will help her improve financial discipline and business planning.
“I now understand how to save consistently, use loans responsibly and invest with a long-term mindset,” she said.
Juma Maulid, a student at Masai Tourism College, said the programme has given him confidence to start planning for his financial future early.
Financial institutions and partners including the Bank of Tanzania, NMB Bank, NBC Bank, Mwalimu Commercial Bank, UTT-AMIS and PSSSF were credited for supporting the initiative and bringing financial services closer to ordinary citizens.
Officials said the programme has strengthened public trust in formal financial institutions and created new opportunities for entrepreneurs to connect with credit, savings and investment platforms.
As Tanzania intensifies efforts to widen financial inclusion, National Financial Services Week is expected to continue serving as a key platform for building a financially empowered population and driving sustainable economic development.