The Chief Executive Officer of the Foundation for Civil Society (FCS), Justice Rutenge, has issued a passionate call to Tanzanians: speak up, get involved, and be part of shaping a powerful new national vision for development that uplifts communities and strengthens the nation.

Speaking in Dar es Salaam during the official launch of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) Week 2025, Rutenge emphasized the crucial role of public participation in influencing Tanzania's development trajectory. The event drew more than 500 participants from across the country.

“CSOs Week has been held consistently for six years, and this seventh edition is more important than ever,” Rutenge stated. “It is a platform for uniting CSO stakeholders in forward-looking dialogue that drives our country's future. This year, our focus is on the National Development Vision for 2050—an opportunity that arises only once in a generation.”

He encouraged Tanzanians from all walks of life to participate actively and in large numbers, stressing that their contributions can shape policies that directly impact their communities and daily lives.

“This is your moment to be heard,” he added. “Let’s seize it together and help define the Tanzania we want for ourselves and future generations.”

Nesia Mahenge, Country Director of CBM International and Chairperson of the Civil Society Committees, echoed Rutenge’s sentiments. She highlighted that CSOs Week provides a rare opportunity to address pressing challenges facing civil society organizations and collectively find sustainable solutions.

“CSOs from both Mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar are committed to coming together each year to assess our impact and chart a course for even greater development outcomes,” Mahenge said. “This is how we build a stronger, more inclusive Tanzania.”

Elibariki Shami, Country Director of Trademark Africa, praised the FCS for its unwavering commitment to strengthening advocacy in the civil society sector. He underscored FCS’s role in protecting consumer rights and fostering awareness around social justice issues.

“FCS has demonstrated exemplary leadership in amplifying citizen voices and translating policy into action,” Shami noted. “They ensure that the everyday Tanzanian is not left behind.”

Meanwhile, Adamson Nsimba, Executive Director of the Tanzania Association of NGOs, emphasized that CSOs Week offers a crucial platform for championing consumer rights, pushing for policy reform, and building community resilience.

“This event not only protects the public but empowers them,” Nsimba said. “It distinguishes consumer rights from corporate interests and places communities at the heart of national progress.”

As Tanzania looks toward Vision 2050, CSOs Week 2025 stands as a pivotal moment—a rallying cry for civic engagement, partnership, and purpose-driven action.