An enquiry into factors affecting sustainability of youth self-employed groups in urban Tanzania: a case of selected youth group in Ilemela municipality

This study aimed at making an enquiry into Factors Affecting Sustainability of Youth Self-employed Groups in Urban Tanzania. The study linked youth groups’ activities and sustainability with regard to the availability and utilization of resources to address group’s needs. On one hand, the study looked into problems which in one way or another have an impact on youth group’s activities. On the other hand, the study sought to find out what makes these groups to continue to exist despite all the challenges that they face. Ilemela Municipality was a case study where four wards were selected. Data collection techniques included interviews, questionnaires and Focused Group Discussions. The study objectives were: to examine the main reasons contributing to establishment of youth groups in Ilemela Municipality, analysis of problems that hinder proper functioning of youth groups and assessment of factors that sustain youth groups in Ilemela Municipality. The study found that the reasons for youth to join groups varied greatly where the level of education was a determinant factor in the formation and prosperity of these groups. Youth groups face a lot of challenges which in so many ways have affected their sustainability. Despite all the challenges that groups face, the study found a number of factors such as solidarity, members commitment in group activities, creative income generating activities that have made these groups to continue to exist, and how group members work hard to achieve the best in their groups and ways that they use to address their problems. Recommendations were given such as the mode of giving fund to youth groups that it should be given in the form of a receiving grant. Also, education and training should be emphasized in youth groups. The recommendations focused on the findings and the study objectives.