Tanzania's Youth Urged to Embrace Accountability and Drive Change

Young people in Tanzania have been challenged to stop complaining about national challenges and take responsibility for developing solutions, upholding integrity, and preparing for leadership. The call was made by Clerk of the National Assembly Baraka Leonard while opening the Eighth Meeting of the Second Youth Parliament in Dodoma on November 10, 2026. He emphasized that Tanzania needed young people able to think critically, debate constructively, and contribute to strong democratic institutions.

The Youth Parliament platform is intended not only to teach parliamentary procedures but also to prepare leaders to serve with patriotism and accountability. Mr. Leonard outlined four principles for participants: discipline and respect for parliamentary procedures; evidence-based arguments; accountability in representing young people; and integrity, patriotism, and commitment to national service. He urged the young legislators to follow parliamentary rules and resolve disagreements through constructive debate rather than hostility.

The participants were challenged to address issues affecting young people, including education, employment, entrepreneurship, technology, healthcare, and participation in decision-making. They were encouraged to examine the causes of problems and propose practical solutions. Mr. Leonard urged those who did not secure leadership positions to remain active by presenting arguments and alternative proposals, saying Parliament depended on contributions from all members.

The Youth Parliament will also debate and pass the proposed Parliamentary Centenary Celebrations Bill, 2026, as Tanzania prepares to mark 100 years of its parliamentary institution. The centenary dates back to the establishment of the Legislative Council of Tanganyika in 1926. The Bill would allow young people to help preserve Parliament's history, experience, values, and traditions.

Earlier, participants received training on Parliament's history, structure, and functions, the Youth Parliament's Standing Orders, and parliamentary procedures. They confirmed their Prime Minister and elected a Deputy Speaker, completing the selection of other parliamentary roles, including ministers and shadow ministers, for the session.

Youth Parliament Speaker, Ms. Anna Mrema, urged participants to see themselves as agents of change rather than wait for future leadership opportunities. She cited discipline, integrity, and respect as essential leadership values and encouraged participants to take their knowledge to their communities and encourage positive change.

The five-day session is expected to give participants practical experience in legislative work, democratic governance, and decision-making. The participants will also assess youth empowerment programs to determine whether training is producing meaningful results in their communities.

Key points

• Young people in Tanzania are being encouraged to take responsibility for developing solutions to national challenges and uphold integrity in leadership.
• The Youth Parliament platform aims to prepare leaders to serve with patriotism and accountability.
• Participants will debate and pass the proposed Parliamentary Centenary Celebrations Bill, 2026.