Joseph Isangura
As Tanzania prepares for its next general election, a powerful message from a civic leader is echoing across youth platforms and political circles. Steve Mengere, chairman of the Mama Ongea na Mwanao Foundation, is urging young political aspirants to seriously question their motives for seeking leadership.
“Are you running to serve your people — or are you chasing the spotlight?” he asked during a recent youth engagement forum in Dar es Salaam.
His statement comes at a time when Tanzania, like many countries, is witnessing a wave of youthful ambition driven by political awakening — but also influenced by social media culture, celebrity status, and personal branding.
According to UNFPA, over 60% of Tanzania’s population is under the age of 35, making it one of the youngest populations in Africa. With such a youthful electorate, the direction of the country will largely be influenced by decisions made by — and for — young people.
This year’s political calendar includes preparations for the upcoming Tanzanian general election, where voters will elect members of parliament and local government authorities. The National Electoral Commission (NEC) is currently overseeing preparations, including party primaries, candidate vetting, and voter registration drives.
Mengere’s warning stems from a growing concern: that political participation is becoming less about service and more about visibility. With platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook shaping public opinion, youth are often drawn into politics for attention, not transformation.
He challenged potential candidates to reflect on their core values, emphasizing ethics, accountability, and public interest. “Real leadership demands humility, not hashtags,” Mengere said. “It requires sacrifice, not selfies.”
This issue isn’t limited to Tanzania. Globally, the phenomenon of performative politics — where image trumps substance — is reshaping democracy. Leaders gain influence through viral videos, trending moments, and online engagement rather than grassroots work or policy substance.
Following Mengere’s remarks, Tanzanian social media lit up with hashtags like #ServeNotShine, #UongoziWaKweli, and #YouthForIntegrity. The message resonated across regions like Arusha, Dodoma, Mwanza, and Mbeya, where youth-led dialogues and political awareness forums have gained momentum.
In universities such as the University of Dar es Salaam and University of Dodoma, student leaders are now organizing debates on responsible leadership, political purpose, and ethical campaigning.
Political analysts suggest that this moment could shape internal party practices, possibly prompting parties like Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) and opposition groups to adopt more rigorous candidate screening to ensure integrity.
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As Tanzania moves closer to the 2025 general elections, Mengere’s message taps into a deeper national concern: the need for value-based leadership. With major decisions looming over education, youth employment, digital transformation, and climate policy, the country needs leaders who are solutions-oriented, not just socially visible.
His comments add to ongoing civic education efforts by organizations such as Tanzania Youth Vision Association, Restless Development, and other community-based NGOs working to bridge the gap between youth ambition and public service values.
Mengere’s words echo a global call for authenticity in leadership. Countries like Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa are seeing a surge in youth entering politics, often balancing between real reform and digital popularity. According to studies on youth participation in politics, this generational shift offers hope — but also requires strong moral direction.
“Leadership is not about being the loudest voice in the room,” Mengere said. “It’s about being the one who listens, learns, and leads for others — even when no one is watching.”
In a season where Tanzanians are watching closely, the future may not lie in the hands of the most visible candidates — but in those who show up with integrity, intention, and heart.
