Zanzibar Child Rights Forum Sida CSOs Program (2022–2024): Success summary

Save the Children Tanzania partnered with Zanzibar Children Rights Forum (ZCRF) to implement Sida Civil Society Strengthening Program (2022–2024), the project aimed to enhance the capacity and effectiveness of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in advocating for child rights in Zanzibar. The program focused on four key areas: organizational capacity building, child agency, child rights and civic space.
Through the Sida CSOs capacity-strengthening program (2022–2024), ZCRF has strengthened its governance and financial systems, increased its membership and partnerships, and amplified its advocacy efforts. The program has enabled children to participate in policy-making processes, including securing a seat at the Zanzibar Annual Budget Forum, influencing government decisions on budget allocations for child welfare. Additionally, ZCRF has successfully lobbied for policies such as the integration of sign language in education, increased funding for Shehia Women and Children Coordinators, and the adoption of a new Children’s Council Manual.
The initiative has also expanded civic engagement by strengthening ZCRF’s role in regional and international human rights mechanisms, contributing to policy reviews, and influencing government commitments on child rights. These efforts highlight the critical role of CSOs in advancing child rights, ensuring equitable access to services, and fostering an inclusive governance framework.