Protecting Youth in Tanzania

“Engaging in life skills activities is the best way to strengthen self-awareness, communication and thinking skills.” Warda, Secondary school

Adolescence, marked by heightened intellectual, physical, social, and emotional abilities, is a crucial period in one's life. Unfortunately, various challenges hinder many young individuals from realizing and utilizing their full potential. Issues like alcoholism, sexual abuse, smoking, juvenile delinquency, and anti-social behavior loom large, leaving a negative impact not only on the youths themselves but also on society at large. 

In response to these challenges, Blue Cross Tanzania has implemented a socially responsible education system. While education is undoubtedly important, the emphasis here is on cultivating skills for a long-term, healthy life. The key lies in teaching life skills that bridge the gap between basic functions and personal capacities, empowering individuals to navigate the complexities of contemporary society and effectively address the issues they face.   

Life skills education plays a pivotal role in enabling young people to overcome life's difficulties and challenges. Covering a range of topics, it fosters confidence in communication, cooperation, and collaboration. Moreover, it equips youth with essential tools for personal development, instills new perspectives on problem-solving, and introduces innovative methods of socializing.

Life skills education is not just about theoretical knowledge; it is a practical approach to arming young individuals with the skills needed to face the world. It empowers them to make informed decisions, fostering resilience in the face of life's challenges!

“Joining in an after-school life skills club enhanced my self-confidence, enabling me to engage in discussions on challenging academic topics with smart boys — which is not common in our society. This newfound confidence became a shield against adolescent pressures, allowing me to focus on my studies. My future dream is to become a biology teacher.” Aneth, secondary school

Alcohol is normalized in our society – it’s everywhere. Especially young people are affected by the consequences of alcohol and other drugs. Therefore, IBC's prevention programmes are primarily aimed at protecting young people. They get sensitized about the harmful consequences of alcohol and other drugs as early as possible. Furthermore, they learn to talk about the risks of problematic consumption patterns in the Life Skills sessions. 

IBC runs a programme in Tanzania that gives young people a voice and a safe space where they can share their own experiences about alcohol and other drugs. They are taken seriously, which strengthens and empowers them. The voice of youth needs to be heard so that they can be agents of change – for a society free of alcohol- and other drug-related harm! 

Anna Panga, a facilitator from Tanzania reports: “Life Skills sessions give youth the freedom to share their reality and perspective on alcohol and other drug use. I like to see how they gradually change their behaviour towards alcohol and other drugs, but also towards life in general.”

Thank you for supporting this meaningful work that brings positive change of the lives of many! Thanks to you, we can continue this work in Tanzania and support young people on their journey.