In Longido District, Tanzania, pastoral communities have been encouraged to adopt Information and Communication Technology (ICT) as a practical tool for preserving their cultural heritage, history, and indigenous knowledge for current and future generations.

The call was made by the Registrar of Societies and Non-Governmental Organizations, Emmanuel Kihampa, during a visit to child and youth development centers supported by Compassion International Tanzania.

He stressed that ICT should not be seen as a threat to traditions and customs, but rather as a supportive tool that helps document, store, and safeguard cultural identity in a more secure and sustainable way.

According to him, modern technology can ensure that valuable community knowledge is not lost over time, especially in rapidly changing social environments.

During the same visit, Compassion International Tanzania Country Director Mary Lema highlighted the importance of collaboration between communities, religious leaders, and the government in fighting child poverty.

She emphasized programs focusing on education, healthcare, nutrition, and spiritual development, noting that the organization has been active for over 25 years and has supported many children and youth across Tanzania.She also called for stronger protection systems for children at home, in schools, and in the wider community.

A report presented by Namanga Cluster Pastors' Secretary Ndewawio Sikawa showed that the Longido Baptist Church Child and Youth Development Center, established in 2003, has supported 497 children and young people so far.Currently, 240 beneficiaries are actively enrolled, including boys and girls in different development programs.The center also supports education from early childhood to university level, including vocational training and higher education students.Additionally, the survival program for mothers and children continues to assist vulnerable families, including prenatal support cases.

The center reportedly spends over 14 million Tanzanian shillings monthly to sustain its services, showing a strong commitment to community development and youth empowerment in the region.