UPDATED: 16 Jan 2008 GMT
Speeches 2007
US Embassy Speech at the Tanzania-Hope (Tan-Hope) Training of Trainers Workshop for Democracy and Good Governance Education Mary B. Johnson, Political Counselor
Supported by a FY2006 Democracy and Human Rights Fund Grant
Venue: Kibaha, Tanzania
August 22, 2007
Habari za asubui! Thank you, Mr. Munga Mtengeti, Chairperson of Tan-Hope, and Mrs. Elina Nicodemus, Coordinator of this trainers workshop. It is my great pleasure to represent the U.S. Embassy today to address this training of trainers to educate citizens about the principles of good governance.
This project of Tan-Hope that all of you have been selected to participate in represents a grassroots effort to increase the participation of the people of Tanga, Bagamayo, Kibaha, and Temeke, Ilala and Kinondoni districts in Dar es Salaam in the democratic process. The Embassy is honored to have been able to fund this project: “Ushirikishuwaji Katika Demokrasia” or “How to Mobilize People to Understand Democracy.”
The grant that funded this training is part of the U.S. Embassy’s Democracy and Human Rights Fund program. In October 2006, Tan-Hope, a civic participation NGO established in 2003, received a grant of approximately 11.5 million Tz Shillings to carry out this training in order to educate the people in your towns and wards about the pillars of democracy.
In 2006, the U.S. Embassy funded four grants under the Democracy and Human Rights Fund totaling USD 50,000. Other projects were funded in Rombo near Moshi, Kagera, and Pemba.
As you know, democracy is from the Greek word “governed by the people.” In Tanzania your democracy is young and growing yet still needs to be strengthened in some areas.
Tanzania is applauded because the presidents of Tanzania have stepped aside after their term is finished to allow a peaceful transition of power through the ballot box. However, many agree that the Parliament needs to be strengthened including the role of the opposition parties in the Bunge to be clearly understood and valued.
A strong judicial system is also essential to ensure that no one, including a government official, is above the law and that human rights are respected.
Finally, a free, unfettered press is a critical pillar in building a strong, resilient democracy. The press can be the voice of the people as well as the ballot box, particularly during the five year period between elections in Tanzania. When the press is vigilant, elected officials are held accountable that public funds are spent for the good of the Tanzanian people.
During your five-day training you are learning how to communicate these important messages on democratic participation to your communities. This opportunity is a privilege and a responsibility for you all. The U.S. Embassy is proud to sponsor this trainers’ workshop and your effort to educate your fellow citizens about democracy. May every success come your way in carrying out your education programs when you return home; we look forward to receiving the final report once your community outreach projects are completed.
Thank you for inviting me today.
Asante.
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