Mama Samia Coop Banking Vision Realized: “Driving Financial Inclusion, Sharing Prosperity”The New Era of Banking has come!

Dodoma, Tanzania – On April 27-28, 2025, the Jakaya Kikwete Convention Center (JKCC) in Dodoma will host a historic event marking the official launch of the Co-operative Bank of Tanzania . This groundbreaking initiative is the realization of President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan’s vision to empower cooperatives and enhance financial inclusion across the nation. Under the theme “Driving Financial Inclusion, Sharing Prosperity,” the event promises to be a transformative milestone in Tanzania’s financial sector, bringing together leaders from government, the private sector, academia, and grassroots cooperative movements to celebrate this monumental achievement.

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A Vision Brought to Life

President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan’s commitment to fostering economic empowerment through cooperatives has long been a cornerstone of her leadership. The establishment of the Co-operative Bank of Tanzania embodies her vision of creating a robust financial ecosystem that serves cooperatives, smallholder farmers, savings and credit cooperatives (SACCOS), and other underserved groups. By providing tailored financial services, the bank aims to bridge gaps in access to finance, particularly in rural areas, and drive sustainable economic growth.

“This is not just the launch of a bank; it is the beginning of a movement,” said Hon. Hussein Bashe (MP), Minister of Agriculture, during a recent press briefing. “It is about empowering communities, especially women and youth, to participate fully in the economy.”

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Event Highlights and Key Activities

The two-day event will feature a dynamic mix of activities designed to engage, educate, and inspire attendees. On April 27, pre-launch activities will set the stage for the main event, with official visits by dignitaries to branches in Tabora, Tandahimba, and Moshi. These visits will highlight the bank’s readiness to serve diverse regions and communities.

Day one will focus on panel discussions featuring experts from various sectors who will explore topics such as innovative financing models, rural financial inclusion, and the role of women and youth in cooperative movements. Documentaries showcasing the journey of cooperatives and testimonials from beneficiaries will also be screened to underscore the impact of these institutions on social and economic transformation.

On April 28, the official launch ceremony will take center stage. Her Excellency Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan will officiate the event, delivering a keynote address that is expected to outline the government’s continued support for cooperative development. The ceremony will include cultural performances celebrating Tanzania’s rich heritage, followed by networking sessions and the unveiling of the Co-operative Bank of Tanzania.

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A Platform for Dialogue and Collaboration

The launch event is more than a celebration—it is an opportunity for dialogue and collaboration. Leaders from government ministries, the Bank of Tanzania, and international cooperative organizations will join forces with cooperative members, private-sector stakeholders, and academicians to discuss strategies for advancing cooperative development. This inclusive approach reflects the bank’s mission to create a shared vision for prosperity.

“The Co-operative Bank of Tanzania is not just a financial institution; it is a catalyst for change,” said Prof. Gervas M. Machimu, Board Chairperson of the bank. “Our goal is to ensure that every cooperative member—whether a farmer in Iringa or a SACCOS member in Arusha—has access to the tools they need to thrive.”

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Anticipated Impact and Audience

With an anticipated attendance of approximately 3,000 participants, the event underscores its national significance. Attendees will include cooperative members, leaders from cooperative unions, local government officials, private-sector delegates, and students specializing in cooperative studies. Many attendees are expected to travel from upcountry regions, reflecting the widespread enthusiasm for the initiative.

The launch of the Co-operative Bank of Tanzania is poised to transform the country’s financial landscape. By providing affordable and accessible financial services, the bank aims to uplift millions of Tanzanians, foster entrepreneurship, and contribute to the nation’s economic and social transformation.

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Venue and Accessibility

The Jakaya Kikwete Convention Center, located in the heart of Dodoma, offers state-of-the-art facilities to accommodate the high-profile event. Equipped with modern audio-visual systems, spacious halls, and ample parking, JKCC ensures a seamless experience for all attendees. Its central location makes it easily accessible from various parts of the city and beyond.

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Join the Movement

As Tanzania embarks on this new chapter in its financial history, the Co-operative Bank of Tanzania stands as a beacon of hope and opportunity. The launch event is not only a celebration of progress but also a call to action for all stakeholders to work together toward a more inclusive and prosperous future.

For those unable to attend in person, the event will be live-streamed on the official YouTube channel of the Co-operative Bank of Tanzania and other partner platforms. Registration for the event is open online, and all registered participants will receive commemorative gifts marking this historic occasion.

To learn more about the event or to register, visit www.coopbanktz.go.tz or contact the event team at info@coopbanktz.go.tz . Join the conversation on social media using #CoopBankTZLaunch and #FinancialInclusionTZ.