RC: Fighting poverty must start at the family level

Arusha Regional Commissioner (RC), Mr Paul Makonda, believes that the fight against poverty should begin at the family level with community members willing to share knowledge and business skills. Addressing the public recently, Mr Makonda said time has come for decisions to kick poverty to be made at the family level with members ready to accept the leadership acumen demonstrated by individuals in various sectors. “We need to decide that one family member will lead in the tourism business, another in the hospitality sector and yet another in mining,” said Mr Makonda. He emphasised that aspiring entrepreneurs should learn from those with experience, while successful individuals must share their expertise and even provide small business loans to start[1]ups. “One problem we face is that many businesses are started in secrecy, which results in streets being flooded with ‘copycat enterprises’ that ultimately oversaturate the market,” he explained. Mr Makonda also criticised the wastage of the region’s produce, which rots on farms despite the proximity of an international airport. “You can sell your produce in markets like Amsterdam or Dubai,” he noted, adding that the region produces organic farm goods which are in high demand globally. He expressed dismay at local supermarkets being stocked with imported tropical produce despite similar items being available locally. He urged people to shift their mindset and stop complaining about lack of opportunities while taking no action to improve their circumstances. “It is possible to achieve prosperity even under these same conditions, which some people blame for limiting their opportunities,” he said, sharing that he overcame poverty by maintaining a positive attitude and outlook. Mr Makonda further highlighted the importance of family support in preparing children for success. He lamented that, in many cases, children lack guidance from their families on how to succeed in life. Meanwhile, the RC called for prayers to maintain peace in Tanzania and to free children from ancestral curses. Speaking at a prayer rally marking the 63rd anniversary of Tanzania Mainland’s independence, Mr Makonda stressed the importance of constant prayer to safeguard the nation. “These prayers are not just about walking, singing or blowing trumpets; they are prayers for self-redemption, to reclaim what has been taken from us and to ask for a brighter future. We must immerse ourselves in prayer so that, together with our families, we may receive blessings,” he said. The rally, which brought together people of all religions and denominations, was held in commemoration of Tanzania Mainland’s independence on 9th December 1961. Tanganyika later united with Zanzibar on 26 April 1964 to form the United Republic of Tanzania.