Tanzania’s opposition party, ACT-Wazalendo, has made a bold promise to create 12 million jobs over the next five years if elected, setting up a direct challenge to the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party ahead of the 2025 general elections.
The announcement was made during a national economic policy forum held in Dar es Salaam, where party leaders unveiled their development agenda focused on job creation, economic reforms, and youth empowerment.
This pledge surpasses CCM’s own manifesto target, which aims to create at least 8 million jobs, with half of those expected to be in the formal employment sector.
According to ACT-Wazalendo leaders, their proposed job creation plan will focus on, expanding agriculture and agro-processing, Investing in renewable energy and infrastructure, boosting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), promoting the digital economy and innovation and nhancing technical and vocational training for youth
They claim this strategy will not only generate employment but also improve productivity and reduce income inequality.
The party explained that the jobs will be generated through a mix of public and private sector partnerships, with government playing a key role in unlocking investment in industries such as, Construction, Manufacturing, ICT and Green energy.
ACT-Wazalendo also plans to reduce bureaucratic barriers that discourage youth and women from starting businesses, and provide access to affordable capital through a proposed National Enterprise Fund.
The ambitious pledge has sparked discussion nationwide, with some political analysts viewing it as a strategic move to attract Tanzania’s growing youth population, many of whom face unemployment or underemployment.
However, critics have questioned whether such a high target is realistic without clear timelines and funding models. CCM has yet to formally respond to the proposal.
Political observers say the job creation debate is likely to become a central issue in the upcoming elections, especially in urban areas where unemployment remains high despite years of steady GDP growth.
And why this matters, because youth unemployment is one of Tanzania’s most pressing challenges, Tanzania’s economy is growing, but many jobs remain informal and unstable and the 12 million job promise could reshape the political landscape if ACT-Wazalendo gains enough public trust.
With elections approaching, Tanzanians are watching closely to see which party offers the most practical and impactful plan for job creation. ACT-Wazalendo’s bold promise has added pressure on the ruling party to defend its track record and outline a clearer path for future employment opportunities.
