The National Financial Services Week in Tanzania: TAMFI and Microfinance Institutions Driving Financial Inclusion

Since its inception in 2021, Financial Service Week has become a national platform for promoting financial literacy, inclusion, and awareness among Tanzanians. Led by the Ministry of Finance, the initiative has been hosted in different regions each year—Dar es Salaam (2021), Mwanza (2022), Arusha (2023), Mbeya (2024), and most recently Tanga in 2026. The week-long event brings together government institutions and financial sector stakeholders, including the Tanzania Association of Microfinance Institutions (TAMFI), to showcase services and educational programs that empower citizens.

The initiative was established to boost financial inclusion across the country, bridging the gap for people outside the formal financial system. Through exhibitions, workshops, and training sessions, citizens are introduced to accessible services such as: savings, budget planning and loans, insurance and pensions, investment opportunities and roles of TAMFI as Self-Regulatory Institution.

Beyond access, the week emphasizes, ensuring that Tanzanians  understand their rights, responsibilities, and opportunities within the financial sector. This approach strengthens both individual financial discipline and national economic resilience.

The 2026 edition was launched at Usagara Grounds in Tanga from January 19th – 26th, under the slogan “Elimu ya Fedha, Msingi wa Maendeleo ya Kiuchumi na Kijamii” (Financial Education, the Foundation for Economic and Social Development). The event was officially opened by the Deputy Minister of Finance, Hon. Laurent Luswetula, on behalf of Minister of Finance Ambassador Khamis Mussa Omar.

This year’s focus was on financial literacy and economic empowerment, highlighting the importance of disciplined financial practices in driving both social and economic development.

As a key stakeholder, TAMFI played a central role in delivering financial education during the week. At its exhibition booth and in classes organized by the Ministry of Finance, TAMFI provided training on:

  • Money management: loan use, savings, and budget planning
  • Financial obligations: understanding repayment responsibilities and commitments
  • Personal financial protection: safeguarding against risks and ensuring financial security

TAMFI’s member institutions, including BRAC. SELF MF and Watu, also participated actively, showcasing microfinance services tailored to low-income households, micro and small businesses, women, and youth.

 National Financial Services Week continues to serve as a powerful platform for advancing Tanzania’s financial inclusion agenda. The 2026 edition in Tanga reaffirmed the government’s commitment to financial literacy as the foundation of economic and social development. Through TAMFI and its member institutions, microfinance remains a cornerstone in empowering citizens, bridging gaps in access, and fostering sustainable growth. TAMFI’s efforts in Financial Literacy and participating consistently in this annual event saw it receive two prestigious awards from the Ministry of Finance.

As Tanzania looks ahead, the collaboration between government, private sector (e.g. TAMFI), and other financial sector stakeholders is critical in ensuring that every citizen has the knowledge, tools, and opportunities to participate meaningfully in the country’s economic journey. No one will be left behind!