UNICEF Chief Calls for Greater Investment in Tanzanian Children

UNICEF Chief Urges Greater Investment in Tanzanian Children

March 10, 2025

Songwe, Tanzania – The Executive Director of the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), Catherine Russell, has called for increased investment in children and adolescent girls to help break cycles of poverty and build a more sustainable future for Tanzania. During her three-day visit to the country, she met with local officials and witnessed firsthand the impact of UNICEF-supported education and health programs.

With Tanzania grappling with one of the highest teenage pregnancy rates in the region—nearly 45% in Songwe alone—UNICEF is intensifying its efforts to provide adolescent girls with access to education, vocational training, employment opportunities, and critical health services.

Investing in Children’s Future

Speaking during her visit, Russell underscored the importance of child-focused investments in securing Tanzania’s long-term prosperity.

“Tanzania has demonstrated that investing in children and adolescents is not just about their future—it is about the country’s future,” she stated.

UNICEF, in collaboration with the Tanzanian government and other partners, is driving initiatives aimed at improving education, community-based healthcare, and nutrition services, with a particular focus on empowering young girls. These efforts also address pressing social issues such as child marriage and teenage pregnancy.

Children make up 50% of Tanzania’s population, while youth account for 72%. UNICEF’s support for government programs has led to significant progress in child survival rates, poverty reduction, decreased child marriage cases, and declining childhood stunting rates.

However, challenges persist. More than 30% of children under five suffer from malnutrition and stunting, which can lead to lifelong developmental issues. To combat this, UNICEF is strengthening community health services to ensure that every child receives proper nutrition and healthcare from an early age.

Transforming Lives Through Education and Training

During her visit, Russell toured Mlowo Primary School in Songwe, where she engaged with adolescent girls enrolled in UNICEF’s Integrated Programme for Out-of-School Adolescents (IPOSA). The program provides education and vocational training for teenage mothers, equipping them with essential skills for self-sufficiency.

Brenda Pazza, an 18-year-old student at Mlowo Primary School, shared her experience with Russell, proudly showing her the vegetable garden she cultivated as part of the IPOSA project.

“Through the IPOSA Programme, I didn’t just learn how to farm—I learned how to save, plan, and invest in my future,” Brenda said, highlighting the program’s life-changing impact.

Russell also visited Mlowo Village’s Community Health and Nutrition Programme, where she observed the implementation of UNICEF’s Village Health and Nutrition Day. She interacted with community healthcare workers, emphasizing their crucial role in ensuring children receive vaccinations, nutrition, and essential care.

“Community healthcare workers are game changers for children, ensuring they receive the right nutrition, vaccinations, and care to give them the best start in life,” Russell noted.

Strengthening Tanzania’s Commitment to Child Welfare

Reaffirming UNICEF’s dedication to supporting Tanzania’s development goals, Russell commended the government’s efforts in expanding child welfare initiatives.

“By strengthening policies, increasing public financing, and expanding community-led programs, Tanzania is building a healthier and more empowered generation of children and youth. UNICEF is proud to support these efforts, and the return on investment is measured in the lives of children saved and improved,” she stated.

UNICEF continues to work closely with the Tanzanian government and local partners to ensure that all children, regardless of their circumstances, have access to education, healthcare, and opportunities for a brighter future.