Children and Youth Participation in Decision- Making in Tanzania: A Need for Vibrant Councils at Local Levels

Abstract

Abstract Despite commitments by the Tanzanian government to protect and promote human as well as establishing junior and youth councils; there is very low participation of children and youth in governance and accountability. This paper was set to explain why there is low participation of children and youth in decision-making in Tanzania. Using a human rights approach and qualitative analysis of secondary data from previous studies, this paper found out that the low participation of children and youth in decision making is a result of weak implementation of policies and laws coupled by inadequate support from the government. The paper, therefore, recommends for effective implementation of policies and laws by the government. This should be done through (a) fast-tracking establishment of National Youth Council and Junior Councils as stipulated in policies and law and (b) establishing regulatory frameworks to oversee the functioning of those councils.