Dorcas Tanzania
Community strength drives lasting development
We see communities facing the triple-challenge of poverty, exclusion and climate change. Our programmes therefore focus on Climate Adaptation, Livelihoods and Food Security, Economic Development, and Protection. The result is communities that build resilience, secure sustainable livelihoods and shape their own futures.
Context in Tanzania
About Tanzania
Tanzania faces deep and compounding challenges. Some 26.4 per cent of the population on the mainland lives below the national basic needs poverty line, and climate change could push an additional 2.6 million Tanzanians into poverty by 2050. Unpredictable rainfall, droughts and soil degradation threaten agricultural productivity and food security. High poverty levels and rising living costs limit livelihood opportunities and reduce household resilience. Groups in vulnerable situations – including children, older people and people with disabilities – frequently lack access to services and protection, and stronger community structures and referral systems are urgently needed.
Dorcas in Tanzania
Dorcas has been active in Tanzania since 1995. We work in the northern zone (Arusha, Kilimanjaro, Manyara), the eastern zone (Tanga) and the central zone (Dodoma). Our approach is community-led and participatory. We work closely with local institutions, civil society and international donors to strengthen resilience, expand access to essential services and secure sustainable livelihoods. Our long-term presence and trusted relationships enable us to deliver impact in underserved areas.
By 2030, we envision a Tanzania where:
What we do
Programmatic themes
Dorcas Tanzania works through four programmatic themes. All programmes integrate gender equality, disability inclusion, climate sensitivity and conflict-sensitive approaches. Community ownership ensures sustainability.
We strengthen sustainable and resilient livelihoods. In Chemba District, farmers used improved seed varieties and soil conservation practices through the PIP approach. Harvests increased from four to fifteen sacks per hectare, improving food security and income stability. Across our programmes, over 1,500 farmers were reached with climate-smart agriculture and sustainable farming techniques in 2024.
We strengthen entrepreneurship, employability and access to markets. In Arusha, young people received vocational training and business mentoring. Graduates established small businesses and secured employment. Across our programmes, over 500 young people were trained in entrepreneurship, financial literacy and employable skills in 2024.
We protect people in vulnerable situations from abuse, neglect and exclusion. In Arumeru District, community protection groups identified and addressed cases of neglect and abuse affecting older people. Awareness campaigns improved reporting and prevention. In 2024, 492 older people and 340 children were supported through social protection and child protection initiatives.
We strengthen community resilience to climate change. In Dodoma region, communities restored degraded land and adopted water-efficient farming practices, improving environmental conditions and agricultural productivity. Across our programmes, over 1,000 households adopted climate-smart agriculture and sustainable land management practices in 2024.
Community-based solutions for older people in Tanzania
Maria (78) lives in rural Tanzania and is solely responsible for caring for her seven-year-old granddaughter, Queenie. For years, they faced significant challenges, including limited access to food, adequate clothing and the resources needed to maintain their home. Since joining Dorcas’ Community Safety Net programme, Maria has gained access to support that has strengthened her wellbeing, resilience and ability to care for her granddaughter.
Our impact in 2020-2025
Climate Adaptation and Food Security
- 1,538 farmers now use climate-smart methods, boosting food security and resilience.
- 1,581 households use a clean cooking energy solutions, contributing to improved health and a cleaner environment.
- 28,727 individuals have gained knowledge in agriculture, clean energy, and forestry.
Water
- 9,500 schoolgirls with WASH access enjoy better health, dignity and wellbeing.
- 30,000 individuals informed about WASH and hygiene practices.
Community Development
- 2,574 people empowered and participating more in their communities.
- 50 communities served.
Economic Development
- 300 people reached by acquiring self-employment skills resulting in improved livelihoods.
How we work
Local leadership and partnerships
Dorcas Tanzania works with local, national and international partners, including government institutions, civil society organisations, research institutes, private-sector actors and faith-based networks. Our partnerships are built on trust, shared values and long-term commitment. Together, we create opportunities for communities to flourish.
- International Evangelism Church Tanzania
- The Free Pentecostal Church of Tanzania
- The Anglican Church of Tanzania
- New Life in Christ
- Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania
- Human Development Innovation Fund (UKAID)
- AfriPads
- Supamoto
- ANZA Entrepreneurs and
- LEAD Foundation Kisiki Hai
- TAREA (Tanzania Renewable Energy Association)
- Tanzania Renewable Energy Association (TAREA)
- National Council of NGOs (NACONGO)
- EU-Cord
- Tanzania MHH coalition
- Tanzania Energy Efficiency Forum
- Shared values and mutual respect
- Complementary strengths
- Transparent communication
- Long-term commitment
- Local leadership
- Joint learning and adaptation
Partnership and investment opportunities
We seek partners who share our commitment to climate resilience, local leadership and long-term impact. We welcome programme partnerships, institutional funding, research collaborations and private-sector engagement.
'The Participatory Integrated Planning approach has helped households move from dependency to planning for their own futures. Farmers apply improved practices, women save together, and families are better prepared to cope with climate and economic challenges. Dorcas' long-term presence has built trust and measurable change.'
Meet our Country Director
Lilian Michael Urassa
'At Dorcas Tanzania, we are inspired by the resilience, creativity and determination of the communities we support. Our programmes reach children, youth and older people, providing livelihoods, skills development, child protection and social safety nets that create lasting change. From safer schools and empowered farmers to households adopting climate-smart practices and clean cooking solutions, these results demonstrate the real, tangible impact of our work. We believe in a future where every family can thrive in a safe, resilient and self-reliant community that cares for its environment. I invite partners and donors to join us in nurturing this vision, scaling innovation and strengthening communities across Tanzania.'
Contact
Dorcas Tanzania office
PO Box 14385, Arusha, Tanzania
Corridor Area, Mtoni Road
Dorcas Training Center, Killi Golf Estate
