DSW Tanzania launched a new phase of its programming through a rejuvenated Youth Empowerment Strategic Approach. The launch of the project dubbed “SIYET” which translates to Supporting Initiatives for Youth Empowerment in Tanzania took place at the DSW Tanzania Office in Arusha. The event was attended by representatives from the project sites of Dares Salaam, Arusha and Kilimanjaro regions that included youth peer educators, Government officials and youth stakeholders. The Project coordinator Winnie Muine on elaborating the project overview stated that “this project aims at improved SRH knowledge and access to youth friendly services for young people, equal access to socioeconomic opportunities for young people and strengthening Institutional capacity of targeted Youth Empowerment Centers (YECs)The project aims at reaching over 2400 youth by the time of its completion.
The event comprised of various activities that included stating of the project portfolio and objectives, sharing of the of the baseline findings, presentation by DSW Youth Peer Educators on their experiences in community interventions, presentation on socioeconomic situation of youth in project sites and a round table meeting with youth development experts. Participants commended DSW Tanzania for continuing to support youth initiatives on SRH and economic empowerment by participatory engagement of youth and key stakeholders. During the plenary, key themes and issues emphasized included strategizing how to reduce teenage pregnancies, ensuring decent employment for youth and strengthening capacity of youth clubs and peer educators. The participants also stated the important role of health service providers in delivering youth friendly services and extension officers supporting youth in their business initiatives such as agribusiness.
DSW Tanzania Program Manager, opening the Launch
DSW Tanzania SIYET Project Coordinator facilitating session on Project portfolio
Health Department Representative from Dar es Salaam during the plenary