In this episode, we explore the bodaboda sector in Dar es Salaam, a vital yet precarious part of Tanzania’s urban transport system. Drawing on new research from Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung (FES), we unpack the lived realities of motorcycle taxi drivers, the gendered dimensions of informal work, and the challenges of regulatory reform. Featuring insights from Michaela Collord and Nice Amon Mwansasu, this conversation dives deep into the politics, potential, and future of informal mobility in African cities.

Tanzania is a "Nation of Youth' with over 60% under 25 and 77% under 35, representing a vital, ambitious workforce. Despite being more educated, youth face high unemployment and 80.1% in the informal sector work without contracts or social protection. Joblessness manifests in daily struggles—from graduates demanding experience to entrepreneurs burdened by costs. The episode features job seekers, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and advocates, analyzing skills gaps, unwelcoming systems, and the exclusion of youth with disabilities. It highlights efforts to improve youth employment and skills, emphasizing solutions such as aligning education with market needs, expanding access to entrepreneurship, and inclusive policies to ensure no youth is left behind.

The cheers of May Day still echo—President Samia’s announcement of a 35.1% minimum wage increase for public sector workers sent waves of excitement through Tanzania. But beyond the celebration, what does this really mean for workers, especially those in the private and informal sectors?

In this thought-provoking episode of Kazi the Podcast, hosts Sam Gidori and Venance Majula dive deep into the realities behind wages, inflation, and labor policies. With insights from key experts—Dr. Joseph Mwinulla, labor economist; Willy Kibona, TUICO representative; and Jonathan Karuguru, consultant for street vendors—we explore salary structures, trade unions’ role in wage negotiations, and the pressing need to protect informal sector workers.

And as the world of work rapidly shifts with technological advancements like AI, we ask: Are workers prepared for the transformation? Will automation revolutionize productivity—or threaten livelihoods?

This episode is packed with powerful perspectives, crucial debates, and forward-thinking discussions on the future of labor in Tanzania. Tune in now to stay informed, empowered, and ready for change!

Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, SoundCloud, YouTube Music, and more. 🎧

The episode is in Kiswahili

What does it mean for the future of work to have human rights in business?

In this episode of our podcast, "Balancing Profit and People: Business and Human Rights in Tanzania,"  we explore this critical question with Jovina Muchunguzi from the Commission for Human Rights and Good Governance (CHRAGG) and Gaston Kikuwi from VIBINDO. They discuss the government's progress in developing a National Action Plan (NAP) on Business and Human Rights, as well as the challenges of implementing these policies. The episode also highlights the roles of CHRAGG and VIBINDO in supporting small business owners by providing education and legal assistance to ensure that human rights are upheld throughout Tanzania's business landscape.

In this episode of Kazi the Podcast, we explore how digital technologies are reshaping the world of work, with a special focus on the ride-hailing sector in Tanzania. As digital platforms become more integrated into everyday services like transport, the conversation shifts to the workers who keep these systems running. We dive into the experiences of motorcycle taxi drivers, hearing firsthand about the opportunities and challenges they face in this digital landscape. With insights from Baker Khundakji of the International Transport Workers Federation, Kenji from Bolt's operations team, and Nice Amon of the Communications and Transport Workers Union of Tanzania (COTWU-T), we examine the realities, risks, and potential of ride-hailing services, as well as the policies in place to protect the rights of workers.