In a significant effort toward advancing adult learning and community development in rural Tanzania, the Matomondo Community Learning Centre (CLC) was officially launched on the 23rd of May 2025 in a ceremony attended by government officials, development partners, and enthusiastic community members. The event was jointly organized by DVV International and the Mpwapwa District Council, under the framework of the Integrated Community-Based Adult Education (ICBAE) programme.

Officiated by Mr. Walyego, the Divisional Officer representing the District Commissioner, the event brought together stakeholders from the President’s Office – Regional Administration and Local Government (PORALG), Ministry of Education, Science and Technology (MoEST), and local leaders—affirming broad commitment to adult education and inclusive development in Tambi Village, Matomondo ward - Dodoma.

The Matomondo CLC, one of four pilot centres under in Dodoma and Coast regions, is envisioned as a hub for lifelong learning, skills acquisition, and socio-economic empowerment. The centre will provide flexible and accessible learning tailored to the local context, focusing on functional literacy, vocational training, and livelihoods.

This center is not just a showpiece—it is for learning. It is for the people of Matomondo to gain knowledge, build skills, and transform their lives.

Mr. O.B.T. Walyego, Divisional Officer, representing the District Commissioner.

Already operational since December 2024, the CLC has trained over 200 learners, with outreach extending to Tambi and Mbori villages through 18 trained facilitators. The centre includes modernized classrooms, a demonstration agricultural plot, and newly constructed sanitation facilities—all designed to foster a conducive and inclusive learning environment.

During the launch, guests toured the facility and interacted with learners showcasing their achievements. Exhibitions included indigenous herbal plants, vegetables from demo plots, and testimonies from Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs). These stories highlighted the practical, life-changing impact of the CLC on individuals’ livelihoods and financial independence.

We emphasize the value of indigenous knowledge alongside new skills. What you see here—whether herbal plants, sunflower crops, or savings groups—is real transformation.

Mr. Geofrey Msigwa, CLC Coordinator.

Stakeholders delivered powerful messages reaffirming their commitment to adult education and community development:

The District Adult Education Officer (DAEO) stressed that the CLC would help learners harness local opportunities:

The main goal is to give our adult citizens the opportunity to acquire various skills and knowledge so they can identify the resources and opportunities they have and use them to raise their living standards and generally improve their economy.

Lucas Myovela, DAEO

The District Community Development Officer (DCDO) emphasized the CLC’s role in building resilient livelihoods, linking education to entrepreneurship and health.

The Regional Director of DVV International – East/Horn of Africa underscored education as a right and a driver of sustainable development:

DVV recognises the importance of education, that education is a fundamental right for everyone, regardless of where they come from. Therefore, this center will help the community to access education.

Frauke Heinze, Regional Director - DVV International

The launch event also featured a prize-giving ceremony and a formal lauching of the building by the Guest of Honour and the Regional Director - DVV International. The atmosphere reflected a shared sense of pride, ownership, and forward-looking energy.

The community has embraced this centre with open arms. We are not starting from scratch—people are already learning, producing, and organizing. Our role now is to support and sustain this momentum.

— Ward Councillor of Matomondo.

A tribute was also paid to the late Ward Councillor, Mr. Saidi, who played a pivotal role in securing the CLC’s location and renovations.

The official launching of the Matomondo CLC yielded several significant outcomes:

• Formal Inauguration: The Matomondo CLC was officially launched and is now recognized as an operational center for adult learning and education.
• Community Mobilization: The event successfully brought together a diverse range of community members from Matomondo Ward, fostering a sense of collective ownership and engagement.
• Positive Reception: The newly renovated CLC was well-received by the community, who expressed appreciation for the upgraded facilities and learning environment.
• Commitment to Utilize: Community members actively participated in the event, demonstrating gratitude and strong intentions to utilize the CLC for their personal and community development.
• Strengthened Partnerships: The launch highlighted the collaborative spirit between DVV International, Mpwapwa District Council, local leadership, and the community, laying a strong foundation for future cooperation.
• Increased Awareness: Stakeholders and community members gained a clearer understanding of the CLC's objectives, functions, and the integrated services it will offer.