The impact of social funds based development projects on poverty reduction in Tanzania:a case of TASAF II project in Ukerewe district

This study was carried out in Ukerewe district, Mwanza region, with the aim of finding out how the persistence of poverty in Tanzania had been reduced by development projects operating under social funds. The second phase of the Tanzania Social Action Fund (TASAF II) project was used as a case. Data were collected from 100 respondents through questionnaires, interview, observation and documentary review. The analysis of data was done using the Statistical Package for Spocial Sciences (SPSS). The findings of the study show that the project has brought great changes in social services such as education, health and infrastructures in the area of the study. Different vulnerable groups (e.g., orphans, elders, widows, people with disabilities, and those with HIV infection) were also given funds to implement various income generating sub-projects in order to meet their basic needs. Sub-projects under TASAF II were generally accepted by community members in Ukerewe district, and had improved the living standard of the people. The sustainability of the income generating subprojects is still questionable. It is recommended that the Tanzanian Government and the project sponsor should find ways to make the income generating subprojects sustainable. The TMU should extend CMC trainings and employ technical staff in each district. Academicians should conduct further studies on the sustainability of income generating sub-projects.