The GOYN Validation Workshop held on September 23, 2024, marked an important step in assessing employment opportunities for young people in the Tanga region. This workshop was part of GOYN’s broader ecosystem mapping assessment, which focuses on identifying key value chains that can boost economic mobility and create sustainable career pathways for youth. The primary goal was to explore areas of growth and development that can lead to more meaningful employment for young people in Tanga, helping them contribute positively to their communities and the broader economy.
According to a study commissioned by GOYN and conducted by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) on Tanga City Council, the youth demographic is substantial. In the region, there are 147,286 young people aged between 15 and 35. Of this group, 3,200 are unemployed and not yet ready to join the workforce, while 5,453 are unemployed but ready to work. Shockingly, only 1,600 youth in Tanga are formally employed. These statistics paint a clear picture of the challenges facing the youth in the area, making initiatives like the GOYN Validation Workshop critical in addressing these issues.
Key Value Chains for Youth Employment
The GOYN workshop identified several key value chains that hold the potential to enhance economic mobility for young people in Tanga. These include agriculture, the creative economy, sisal, and the blue economy. Each of these sectors represents a unique opportunity for youth to build careers, gain valuable skills, and make a lasting impact on their communities.
- Agriculture: As one of the largest industries in Tanzania, agriculture provides a wide range of employment opportunities. However, many young people lack the necessary skills and resources to take advantage of these opportunities. The workshop emphasized the need for stronger market connections and the development of relevant technical skills that would allow youth to thrive in the agricultural sector.
- The Creative Economy: The creative economy is rapidly growing in many parts of the world, and Tanga is no exception. From art and design to digital media, the creative economy offers diverse career pathways for youth. The workshop highlighted the importance of nurturing creativity and innovation while providing the training necessary to turn artistic talents into profitable careers.
- Sisal: Historically significant to Tanzania, sisal production remains a key area for economic growth. Youth engagement in this sector can lead to more job opportunities, particularly in value addition, processing, and distribution. The workshop identified gaps in the sisal industry that, if addressed, could significantly boost employment prospects for Tanga’s youth.
- The Blue Economy: As a coastal city, Tanga has immense potential in the blue economy, which includes industries such as fishing, marine tourism, and shipping. The workshop explored how young people could become involved in these sectors, particularly through acquiring the right skills and knowledge to excel in maritime industries.
Building Skills and Market Connections
One of the core messages from the GOYN Validation Workshop was the importance of building strong market connections and acquiring relevant skills. The workshop stressed that for young people to successfully enter and advance in these key sectors, they must have access to proper training, mentorship, and market information. Connecting with local businesses and experts in these fields is essential to understand what is needed to succeed.
Youth representatives, local businesses, and industry experts participated in in-depth discussions during the workshop. They explored the various opportunities available in each value chain and identified the barriers that prevent young people from accessing these opportunities. The focus was on developing a practical approach to equipping youth with the skills they need to secure employment and build sustainable careers.
Creating an Inclusive Ecosystem
The GOYN workshop represents an important step toward creating an inclusive employment ecosystem in Tanga. By bringing together different stakeholders—youth representatives, local businesses, and industry experts—the workshop facilitated meaningful conversations about the future of employment in the region. This collaborative approach is crucial in ensuring that the ecosystem supports youth from diverse backgrounds and offers them equal access to job opportunities.
The workshop also underscored the need for policies and programs that support youth in their pursuit of employment. From skill development initiatives to mentorship programs, it is essential that young people are given the resources and support needed to succeed. GOYN is committed to developing an inclusive system that empowers young people to secure meaningful employment, thus allowing them to become active contributors to their communities.
Conclusion: Empowering Youth for the Future
The GOYN Validation Workshop was a vital platform for assessing and improving employment prospects for Tanga’s youth. By focusing on key sectors like agriculture, the creative economy, sisal, and the blue economy, the workshop provided a roadmap for empowering young people to build sustainable careers. With continued collaboration, skill-building, and support, Tanga’s youth can play a critical role in driving economic growth and shaping a brighter future for their region.
