Patrobas Katambi has called on young people across Tanzania to protect the country’s peace, reject divisive political rhetoric, and focus on building positive futures, saying the nation depends on them as tomorrow’s leaders.
He made the remarks in Dodoma while opening a youth development forum attended by about 600 young participants from different regions, marking five years of the Tanzania Youth Development Forum.
The forum brought together youth to discuss development, leadership, and their role in strengthening national unity.
Katambi said discipline, respect for the law, and responsible behaviour are key foundations for personal success and national stability.
He urged young people to avoid actions that break the law, warning that many youth face unnecessary challenges because of avoidable mistakes.
He also encouraged them to understand national laws and help educate others, noting that informed citizens are better placed to contribute to development.
The Minister strongly warned against political messages that promote violence, hatred, and division, saying such tendencies threaten peace and slow down national progress.
He urged young people to reject individuals who seek to divide society along political, social, or other lines, and instead focus on unity and constructive engagement.
On security matters, Katambi encouraged youth to take an active role in reporting crime, stressing that criminals often live within communities.
He warned that hiding information about criminal activities can put innocent lives at risk and weaken community safety.
He called on young people to cooperate with security organs by sharing timely and accurate information.
He also reminded youth to use their education and influence to promote patriotism and national awareness, stressing that Tanzania is their only homeland and they have a responsibility to protect its peace and future development.
Katambi further urged responsible use of social media, advising young people to use digital platforms for accessing useful information such as health updates, job opportunities, and economic knowledge.
He warned against using social media to spread insults, false information, hate speech, or discrimination, saying such behaviour damages both individuals and national cohesion.
The forum, which brought together hundreds of young people from across the country, focused on empowering youth with knowledge and skills for leadership, peacebuilding, and economic participation.
Organizers said the discussions aimed to strengthen youth involvement in national development and promote responsible citizenship.
Participants were encouraged to take the knowledge gained back to their communities and act as ambassadors of peace, discipline, and development, reinforcing the role of young people in shaping Tanzania’s future.
