Jane Mpapalika: Inspiring The Next Generation

Dar es Salaam

Dr Jane Mpapalika, a Senior Researcher in the Capacity Building and Collaborations Department at REPOA, is a shining example of what determination, resilience, and hard work can achieve. Through her impressive career, she has risen from humble beginnings to become a prominent figure in economic research and policy advocacy, focusing on empowering women and youth across East Africa.

Mpapalika has garnered numerous accolades, including winning five significant awards, the most recent from the Women’s Young Economist (OMYE) in Southern Africa. This award recognized her Outstanding Visionary Thinking and Motivation for Ongoing Personal Growth in economics. Her educational journey, which began at the University of Dar es Salaam, where she earned her degree in economics, later took her to the Graduate Institute of Geneva for her Master’s degree. Since then, she has continued to expand her expertise, attending international institutions such as Oxford University and the University of Oslo, and developing skills in policy foresight, strategy development, and international finance.

REPOA, initially founded in 1994 as the Research on Poverty Alleviation Programme Limited, was rebranded in 2014 to REPOA Limited, reflecting its broader mandate while retaining its established reputation. The organization, Tanzania’s leading think tank, influences national policy through evidence-based research. Mpapalika plays a key role in this process, using her extensive experience in public policy, partnerships, and gender-based communication to impact real change.

One of her most notable achievements has been her work on climate-smart agriculture in the Kagera Region, where she spearheaded a Training of Trainers (TOT) program that has already empowered over 500 women and youth farmers. This initiative aims to train an additional 15,000 people, enabling them to adopt sustainable farming practices. Mpapalika’s efforts have also extended to launching the East African Hub, a donor-supported women’s and youth initiative that promotes economic empowerment across the region.

Her leadership is recognised through awards and her active engagement with international organizations like the World Bank, GIZ, the National Economic and Social Council (NESC), and the National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER). She has contributed to high-impact projects like the Plan for National Economic Empowerment Council (NEEC) in Tanzania and has conducted feasibility studies on critical issues such as banana ripening for competitive local and international markets.

Mpapalika attributes much of her success to perseverance. “As a senior researcher, I usually urge women to showcase their potential. I started small, but with every little step, it matters. One day, you will finally see the light at the end of the tunnel,” she shares, emphasizing the importance of persistence in achieving long-term goals.

Her role as a senior researcher has also made her a mentor to many. Mpapalika is passionate about nurturing the next generation, particularly women. She believes creating opportunities for women in economic research and financial analysis is critical to transforming their lives and the broader community. She regularly mentors young professionals and encourages them to embrace leadership and strategic thinking.

Despite the predominantly male-dominated spaces in which she has operated, Mpapalika has earned the respect of her peers and continues to break barriers. “Most of my seniors are men, but they encourage me to grow and support my vision,” she says. Her doctoral studies in Economics testify to her commitment to furthering her knowledge and applying it to impact higher education in East Africa.

Mpapalika’s influence extends beyond academia and research. Through her work with financial institutions and her ongoing collaborations with international experts, she aims to enhance financial literacy, particularly for women, and inspire more inclusive participation in economic activities. Her contributions to post-harvest management and sustainability are equally noteworthy, as she works to foster stronger economic ties within the agricultural sector.

Looking forward, Mpapalika is driven by her desire to make a lasting impact on the region’s future leaders. With her continued research and commitment to financial modelling and economic development, she aims to equip the next generation with the tools they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Mpapalika is not just flying high; she is lifting others as she climbs, creating pathways for young women and communities to reach their potential. Through her work at REPOA, her international engagements, and her deep-rooted passion for education and empowerment, she is set to leave an indelible mark on Tanzania and beyond.