Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 30 January 2018
136. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the Exchequer funding earmarked for Tanzania through Irish Aid for 2018; and his views on the future policy of investment in Tanzania as it moves towards middle income status. [4072/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra€21 million has been allocated to Ireland’s bilateral programme in Tanzania in 2018, with additional funding of approximately €2 million allocated to Irish and international NGOs operating in Tanzania. The bilateral programme supports vulnerable groups such as women and youth in the areas of sustainable livelihoods, reproductive health and nutrition as well as strengthening democratic space and supporting refugees.
Tanzania has the fastest growing economy in the East African Community, with consistent growth rates of 7%. It has benefitted from growth in manufacturing, services, construction and tourism. With such rapid economic growth, the Tanzanian government has set a target of 2025 to reach middle income status. However, slow growth in agriculture, where the majority of the population make a living, coupled with significant population growth, mean that the benefits of growth are not widely distributed. Tanzania is still among the 25 poorest countries in the world with 28% of the mainland population (over 12 million people) living below the national poverty line, and 43% below the international poverty line.
This analysis informs decision making in targeting resources as part of Ireland’s development programming in Tanzania and explains the focus on supporting the vulnerable groups such as women and children. This is in line with the overarching strategy for my Department and one strand of our strong relationship with Tanzania which also includes a growing focus on trade and investment. The Irish Embassy in Tanzania will continue to work closely with Irish and Tanzanian businesses, and the relevant government agencies, to increase trade and business links between our countries.
