Transforming Lives: The Success Story of Msimbati Peace Club

  

By Dr Fatma Waziri

In the coastal of Mtwara region, Msimbati Bay, the Msimbati Peace Club has emerged as a ray of positive change through their innovative peace dividend project.

The transformative initiative is part of the Dumisha Amani Project, which has now successfully concluded its first phase of implementation.  The project has been implemented jointly by Global Peace Tanzania and the Prime Minister’s office funded by UNDP in Tanzania. 

Focused on the sustainable livelihood of the community while promoting peace, the club members have effectively engaged in the buying and selling of fresh fish and sardines from the Indian Ocean . The proactive approach, marked by aggressive market strategies and branding initiatives, sets them apart as they proudly bring their sardines and fish, dried by the warm embrace of sunlight, to the market.

The club is formed by nine members of which 5 are women and 4 are men. Among the 3 peace clubs involved in the fish project, the youth of Msimbati Dumisha Amani  Peace club have demonstrated exceptional dedication and effort, showcasing a remarkable journey from despair to hope. They also, exemplify a spirit of resilience and determination in reinforcing their role as leaders in promoting peace and sustainable development.

Their journey is among powerful testimony to the success of the DumishaAmani project in the three region of Lindi, Mtwara, and Ruvuma. These young individuals are not only securing a sustainable livelihood but also leaving an indelible mark on their community, proving that peace, innovation, and economic progress go hand in hand.

"We are grateful to the support we have received from UNDP through GPF Tanzania, our business is thriving both in Msimbati and beyond. We are receiving numerous orders from Tandahimba, Nanyamba, and Mtwara, as well as Songea, and Newala. We make sure to safely deliver our goods to our customers," shares the Msimbati Peace Club, chairperson Juma Kambanga

"So far, within just two months, we have made a profit from our business. With this profit, we have initiated new ventures for sustainability and growth. We have established a small fresh vegetable shop (gege) selling tomatoes, potatoes, onions, okra, and ginger in bulk, selling them at our shop in Msimbati," he added.

Looking forward, they envision themselves self-sufficient in five years, "expanding our business, opening markets, and setting up stands in places like Mtwara town, Songea, and Nachingwea. Additionally, on a personal and family development level, we plan to purchase a large piece of land in Msimbati, divide it among ourselves, and name it the 'Msimbati Peace Club Land,'" Said Kambanga

The ambitions and determination to success colours their story whilst illustrating how Dumisha Amani project has significantly instilled a sense of purpose and unity among the youth of southern region boarding Mozambique which are prone to VE. They serve as living proof that when given the right tools and opportunities, the youth can lead the way towards positive transformation.