More than TZS 1.7 billion in loans from the 10 percent local revenue allocation has benefited women in Mbarali District, Mbeya Region, as the council expands efforts to promote economic empowerment.
The loans are part of a government initiative that requires local government authorities to allocate 10 percent of their internally generated revenue to provide interest-free loans to women, youth and people with disabilities so they can engage in income-generating activities.
Speaking during the weekend commemoration of International Women's Day, Mbarali District Executive Director Raymond Mweli said the council has been closely monitoring the implementation of the programme to ensure the loans reach the intended beneficiaries.
He said women alone have so far received more than TZS 1.7 billion through the scheme, with more funds continuing to be disbursed to organised groups in the district.
“In 2025 the council disbursed loans worth TZS 500 million, and at the beginning of this year we have already issued TZS 733 million. There are still more funds allocated which will continue to be issued according to the procedures,” Mweli said.
He said the programme aims to create opportunities for citizens who may not have access to formal employment, enabling them to start or expand small businesses and improve household incomes.
Mweli added that the council has directed officials to prepare a detailed report showing how the loans have helped improve the economic status of residents in Mbarali, particularly women.
Apart from the loan scheme, the council has also invested in improving social services and development infrastructure.
Mweli said that between the 2024/2025 and 2025/2026 financial years the council allocated more than TZS 2 billion to development projects in the education sector, including the construction and improvement of infrastructure in primary and secondary schools.
He said the council has also introduced weekly project inspection visits across wards to ensure development projects are implemented according to the required standards.
Mbarali District Community Development Officer Groly Komba said that within one year alone the council disbursed more than TZS 1 billion in loans to 165 women’s groups.
She said women in the district are encouraged to form registered groups and obtain identification so they can qualify for government-supported economic opportunities and financial services.
Mbarali Member of Parliament Bahati Ndingo said the commemoration of International Women’s Day provides an opportunity to assess progress made in promoting women’s development and participation in economic activities.
He noted that Tanzania being led by President Samia Suluhu Hassan reflects growing recognition of women’s leadership and their role in national development.
