John Henrik Clarke Africana Library

Author:

Laddie Julius Benton

Degree Date:

January, 1975

Committee Chairperson:

Rukudzo Murapa

Call Number:

Thesis DT 3.5 1975 B478

Description:

v, 123 leaves; 29 cm.

Abstract:

Tanzania, like most recent independent nations that were formerly under colonial rule, was left with many problems from the colonial era that must be resolved. This study is concerned with these problems and will examine the government's developmental policies for eradicating them. This study is intended to examine the feasibility of these policies as they are implemented within the society. Among the many problems that this infant nation must resolve are: (1) the establishment of a common ideology among its citizens; (2) the teaching of its citizens the values of nationalism, unity, respect, self-reliance, and self-determination; (3) the eradication of poverty with the nation; (4) the abolishment of the nation's colonial mentality; and (5) the establishment of schools that will teach students the skills that are necessary to help develop and uplift the nation as a whole. The question that now remains is whether or not Ujamaa and self-reliance will help to resolve these problems.

The research methodology employed by the writer consisted mostly of using materials and data that were available in various libraries. The Syracuse University East African Institute proved to be an invaluable source for gathering materials that were essential to the development of this study. The Library of Congress was also an invaluable source for preparing this study. Although the writer did not get a chance to study in Tanzania because of lack of available funds, he was fortunate to meet and discuss many of the issues with various persons who either lived, or had visited Tanzania. These discussion and interviews proved to be of great value in preparation of this study.

It is much too early to make absolute conclusions as to whether or not the policy of Ujamaa and self-reliance will eradicate many of the problems and hardships that confront the Tanzanian government. However, before final judgment is passed, this "experiment" in government must be given ample time in which to either succeed or fail. It appears there is sufficient evidence that progress is being made, and that the citizens of Tanzania are beginning to accept the government's socialist policies. Upon examination of the educational system, one will discover that the schools are beginning to stress skills that will help in nation-building. There has been an increase in Ujamaa villages, which illustrates the willingness of the people to accept socialist doctrines. Swahili is being stressed among the people as the national language. These are only a few of the many indications that Ujamaa and self-reliance are feasible for Tanzanian society.

Based upon the progress that the government is making in various areas, there is little doubt that this "experiment" is working. However, there constantly remains the threat of outside aggression against Tanzania because of its policies. It would behoove the Tanzanian government to build a military that can protect the nation. There is little or no value in being able to establish a progressive government if that government cannot be protected from invaders. The government of Tanzania must carefully examine its history, and take actions that are appropriate to insure Tanzania's independence. It is therefore imperative that along with developing the attitudes of its citizens, it must also develop a military that can protect its citizens and the national interests.