Jiwezeshe Seminar

Project Overview:

The Jiwezeshe Seminar is an annual flagship capacity-building initiative implemented by WAPEDO to empower entrepreneurs, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), project managers, and community groups. The seminar was established to address the gap in access to practical business knowledge, project management skills, and institutional support, particularly at the district and grassroots levels where such opportunities are often limited.

The initiative provides a dynamic platform for learning, experience sharing, mentorship, and networking. Through practical workshops and interactive sessions, participants are equipped with tools to strengthen their enterprises, improve financial management, and build sustainable and resilient businesses.

Theme: Capacity Building, Entrepreneurship and Sustainable Livelihoods

Status: Completed 

 

Duration: 2023 – 2024

Location: Mpwapwa District and other selected locations in Tanzania

Objectives

1) Strengthen entrepreneurial, leadership, and project management skills
2) Promote financial inclusion, record keeping, and responsible resource utilization
3) Foster innovation, collaboration, and self-reliance among entrepreneurs and groups
4) Support sustainable growth of SMEs and community-based enterprises

Key Activities

1) Capacity-building sessions on entrepreneurship, leadership, and business development
2) Practical workshops on record keeping, financial management, and resource utilization
3) Interactive group discussions, case studies, and simulation exercises
4) Networking sessions connecting entrepreneurs, experts, and institutions
5) Business clinics providing tailored advisory and mentorship support

Results and Achievements

1) Since its launch in 2023, the Jiwezeshe Seminar has recorded significant and measurable outcomes:
2) Over 200 entrepreneurs, SMEs, and project groups trained during the inaugural seminar
3) Three (3) groups opened formal bank accounts, improving access to financial services
4) 60% of participating groups actively utilizing banking services after the seminar
5) 70% of participants adopted proper business record-keeping practices
6) Businesses applying record keeping reported an average revenue increase of 25%
7) Formation of three (3) new savings groups with a total of 60 members and accumulated savings of TZS 500,000
8) Ninety (90) participants reported noticeable business growth after applying seminar knowledge

Partners

1) Individual Donors and Supporters