Economic hardships dominate everyday life
Almost half of the population lives on less than USD 1.90 a day³, and only 61 per cent has access to drinking-quality water (UNICEF, 2017/Water, sanitation and hygiene).
30 years of economic downturn leave a mark
One reason for this difficult situation is the enduring impact of socialism, which began with independence from Great Britain at the start of the 1960s. This led to an economic downturn that lasted for over 30 years and continues to have a profound effect on the country today.
Efforts are not enough
Although the Tanzanian government has succeeded in boosting the economy since the end of the socialist economic and social system in the 1990s, its efforts have not translated to poverty reduction. This is particularly true for the rural population, which makes up almost 70 per cent of the total population experiencing poverty.