The project seeks to scale up results achieved in the 1st phase of the previous project advocated for enabling environment, identifying and accessing local opportunities available for PWDs, particularly in creating employment. Key successes of the 1st phase of the project include increased awareness of PWDs on availability of the interest-free 2% of the funds from the district councils, the contribution of the establishment of the PWDs Committees in 9 districts, as well as development and submission of the charter of demand. In the one-year previous time, 75 entrepreneurial groups were established and accessed the 2% interest-free funds for their businesses. However, neither the established committees in all 9 district councils are not effectively using the charter of demand nor the established entrepreneurial groups have access to financial sources other than the district councils for their business growths. This project wants to develop capacity of the ten (10) Committees of PWDs in Morogoro on how to use the developed charter of demand for increased access to available opportunities with particular focus on increasing employment; improving access to market, financial and technical support to entrepreneurial groups of PWDs in nine (9) districts; increased political participation of PWDs in village/street, ward, district and regional levels in Morogoro and; increased public awareness on the rights, opportunities, and abilities of PWDs through open campaigns and effective use of social and traditional media. At the organizational level, the project seeks to develop social media strategy that will be along with the establishment of the YouTube channel and regularly update the existing website and social media pages. This will play a big role not only in communicating the work of the project but also will increase the organizational visibility, engage community members and mobilize resources hence sustainability in turn

Introduction:
Our project aims to empower Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Tanzania, specifically in the Morogoro region, by fostering socio-economic inclusion. We recognized the critical need for people with disabilities to have access to local opportunities, particularly employment, and worked to amplify their voices, raise awareness, and create community engagement.

Project Implementation:

During the project implementation phase, we were determined and worked together from the beginning. We overcame challenges such as bureaucratic obstacles, limited resources, and the immense task of changing people’s attitudes about PWDs. We made steady progress towards our goals through campaigning, capacity-building workshops, and community engagement programs. Milestones were reached as we formed PWD committees at all levels of government, provided entrepreneurship training, and used media outlets to disseminate our message.

Impact and Transformation:

Our path focuses on transforming the lives of people with disabilities and their communities. Tangible outcomes include a significant increase in the number of PWD groups accessing interest-free loans, enhanced PWD skills and awareness of business and civic rights, and the formation of a strong support network through PWD committees. These accomplishments are more than simply numbers; they represent new opportunities, dignity, and hope for PWDs who were previously marginalized. One such success story is Mama Salma, a visually impaired businesswoman who began her own business selling handmade products with the help of our project. She obtained valuable business management and financial literacy skills through our training programs, allowing her to sustainably build her business and become an influence in her community.

Lessons Learned:

Our path was full of trials and lessons. We learned the value of flexibility and resilience in the face of unexpected challenges, such as changes in loan application procedures and exchange rate fluctuations. These experiences highlighted the importance of continual support and capacity-building in enabling people with disabilities to effectively navigate complicated socioeconomic settings. As we reflect on our project experience, we are inspired by the resilience and determination of people with disabilities to overcome challenges and thrive. We invite others to join us on our mission of inclusivity and empowerment. Every action, whether financial, volunteer, or advocacy, helps build a more equal society in which all voices are heard and appreciated. Finally, our project experience exemplifies the transformational power of collective action and highlights the potential for positive change when communities band together behind a common vision of empowerment and inclusion.

Conclusion:
Unlocking Local Opportunities for People Living with Disabilities in Morogoro – Phase II is more than just a project; it demonstrates each individual’s perseverance, strength, and potential to overcome obstacles and reach greatness. Through teamwork, tenacity, and steadfast commitment, we have built the framework for a more inclusive and equitable future for people with disabilities in Tanzania and beyond.