TEC’s General Secretary Dr. Charles Kitima, emphasizes the need for interfaith efforts to align with Tanzania’s constitution and amplify the voiceless.
Interfaith Coalition Champions Justice, Development, and Empowerment in Tanzania
By Adonis Byemelwa
For over a decade, the Norwegian Church Aid (NCA) and the Interfaith Standing Committee on Economic Justice and Integrity of Creation (ISCEJIC) have been leading transformative change in Tanzania, empowering communities through advocacy, research, and economic justice initiatives. Is
Their unique interfaith approach, uniting religious groups across the country, has become a powerful force for social change, tackling critical issues such as poverty, health care, and environmental sustainability.
Through its commitment to research, advocacy, and promoting economic justice, the initiative has sparked significant social and policy changes, particularly in marginalized communities.
The coalition made up of the Christian Council of Tanzania (CCT), the Tanzania Episcopal Conference (TEC), and the Muslim Council of Tanzania (Bakwata), has utilized an interfaith approach that transcends religious boundaries to address some of the nation’s most pressing issues.
This approach has proven critical in a country marked by a diverse religious and political landscape, where interfaith efforts serve as a moral and ethical foundation for development. By uniting Christian, Muslim, and other faith-based organizations, the interfaith approach ensures a broader, more inclusive movement that resonates with a wide range of people.
It also draws upon the deep-rooted presence of religious institutions within Tanzanian communities, which gives these initiatives an influential platform to engage directly with local populations.
Whether addressing economic inequalities, health issues, or environmental challenges, the interfaith coalition provides a unified voice that amplifies the needs and aspirations of ordinary Tanzanians, particularly the underserved and marginalized.
Religious organizations have long been seen as pillars of support within local communities, offering both material and spiritual guidance. The interfaith coalition’s unique approach emphasizes the importance of ethics in development, underscoring values such as justice, peace, compassion, and accountability.
By emphasizing human dignity alongside economic growth, the movement strives for holistic development that goes beyond wealth accumulation. Rather, it focuses on ensuring that communities benefit from fair policies, equal opportunities, and social justice.
The strength of this initiative lies in its ethical framework, which stresses that true development cannot be achieved without prioritizing the well-being of all people, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status.
The coalition has not shied away from tackling the root causes of Tanzania’s socio-economic issues, particularly those that require structural change. Key issues such as tax justice, equitable healthcare access, and environmental sustainability have been at the center of their advocacy.
Their consistent efforts have resulted in positive changes in both policy and practice, influencing decisions at local, national, and even international levels. The publications produced by the coalition, including Golden Opportunity (2008), Gold or Our People (2010), One Billion Dollar Question (2012), and Make It Possible (2018), reflect these critical areas of focus and provide insights into their strategic approach to development. These works have garnered attention from policymakers and international organizations, further elevating the coalition’s impact.
A recent forum hosted by NCA celebrated the coalition’s achievements and reflected on the lessons learned from more than a decade of interfaith collaboration. The gathering also explored the current and future potentials of this approach to development, particularly in an era of rapidly shifting political landscapes. One of the key themes of the forum was the call for religious leaders to take an active role in addressing social injustices, a responsibility they hold given their close relationship with local communities.
Retired ISCEJIC Chairman Bishop Stephen Munga highlighted the success of the movement, noting that their commitment to justice, truth, and ethical leadership has played a crucial role in driving real change. “We stood up for justice and let the truth speak without harming or glorifying anyone,” he stated, emphasizing that the integrity of their efforts was central to their success.
The forum also saw contributions from key religious leaders who shared their reflections on the impact of interfaith collaboration. Sheikh Nuru Mruma, Secretary General of Bakwata, noted that the interfaith movement has made significant strides in sectors such as healthcare and mining.
He shared that, with the support of NCA, interfaith initiatives continue to educate communities, helping citizens understand their rights and responsibilities, including active participation in the democratic process. The work done to raise awareness on issues such as health policy, tax justice, and the importance of voting has empowered Tanzanians to demand better governance and more inclusive development policies.
Despite the progress made, Canon Rev. Dr. Moses Matonya of CCT acknowledged that challenges remain. He pointed out that while interfaith efforts have brought positive changes, many communities continue to face injustices that need urgent attention.
His call for greater collaboration among development stakeholders was a reminder that more work is needed to reach those who are still excluded from the benefits of these initiatives. He stressed that interfaith leaders play an essential role in conducting research and consulting experts to ensure that their interventions have a lasting and meaningful impact.
Dr. Camilius Kasala from TEC further emphasized the role of religious leaders in shaping Tanzania’s development trajectory. He encouraged faith-based organizations to continue promoting hard work, strategic planning, and obedience to God as the foundations of progress.
He also called on civil society organizations (CSOs) to remain committed to justice, peace, and love, ensuring that their work is guided by strong ethical principles. Father Dr. Charles Kitima, TEC’s General Secretary, reinforced this message, highlighting the importance of aligning interfaith efforts with Tanzania’s constitution and providing a platform for the voiceless. He also raised concerns about low civic awareness, stressing that more education is needed to empower citizens to understand their rights and hold authorities accountable.
Bishop Nelson Kisare, Chairman of the Interfaith Council, concluded the forum with a powerful reminder about the moral responsibility of those in positions of power. He urged leaders to act justly, speak out against injustice, and ensure that their actions serve the most vulnerable. “We must condemn societal injustices and not remain silent when bad things happen. Silence enables harmful practices,” he declared.
In a democratic system that is still evolving, with challenges such as political polarization and governance issues, the interfaith coalition has proven to be a stabilizing force. It has fostered collaboration among religious leaders and civil society organizations, ensuring that ethical principles guide development efforts.
In the face of ongoing political, social, and economic challenges, the interfaith approach stands as a beacon of hope, offering a vital platform for dialogue, understanding, and transformative change. By uniting diverse groups in the pursuit of justice, peace, and social equity, the coalition plays a crucial role in shaping a stronger, more inclusive Tanzania in the years ahead.
