MWE Correspondent
Following recent reductions and suspensions of international aid—especially from the United States and other donor countries—concerns have heightened about the financial wellbeing of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) working across Tanzania.
Lawmakers are now urging the government to conduct a detailed evaluation of NGOs’ financial health to safeguard their crucial role in society.
This call was made on May 27, 2025, during a parliamentary session focusing on the budget for the Ministry of Social Development, Gender, Women and Special Groups. A Member of Parliament representing Special Seats under the ruling party highlighted the urgent need for a financial review following the withdrawal of significant funding from international partners.
“It’s important for the government, through the relevant ministry, to conduct a thorough assessment of NGOs’ financial situation, especially after aid suspensions from the United States and other nations,” she stated. “Understanding this reality will help prevent further harm to this vital sector.”
She also recalled a 2023 directive from President Samia Suluhu Hassan, which emphasized the quick establishment of a collective fund known as the NGOs Basket Fund. This fund is intended to streamline and support NGO funding. The MP requested updates on the progress of this initiative, given the current economic challenges and shrinking foreign aid.
Additionally, the MP urged the government to ensure the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) formally distinguishes NGOs from commercial entities. This separation is vital to prevent NGOs from being unfairly subjected to tax regulations designed for profit-making businesses.
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“TRA must clearly differentiate NGOs from businesses. It’s unfair to treat NGOs as if they were commercial enterprises,” she explained.
Another issue raised involved NGOs’ difficulty accessing private security services due to a lack of formal recognition within the country’s security framework. Many NGOs have been forced to register as commercial entities to obtain such services. The MP urged lawmakers to amend legislation to officially recognize NGOs as special groups entitled to registration fee exemptions for private security.
The MP also expressed heartfelt appreciation for the cooperation of NGO stakeholders during her tenure and pledged to continue advocating with dedication, innovation, and professionalism to advance the country’s development.
She concluded by reassuring the people of Bukoba, a town in northwestern Tanzania, of her continued commitment to social and economic progress. She also expressed hope to maintain a strong working relationship with the leadership of the Union of Tanzania Workers (UWT) to further her developmental agenda.
