Tanzania is not on track to meet its Millennium Development
Goals target despite a growth record that – as reported – is
impressive. Real GDP growth reached historically high levels
between 2000-2006, yet this is set against only the slightest
reduction in the poverty rate – from 35.7% in 2001 down to
33.4% in 2007.
Indeed, ‘few adult Tanzanians think they are enjoying the fruits
of economic growth’ and ‘in all income groups … more people
perceive falling rather than rising living standards’ according to
the findings of the Views of the People Survey in March/April
2007 (Poverty and Human Development Report 2007).
Interrogating the data is essential to understanding why
impressive economic growth has not lead to a corresponding
reduction in poverty. This is not only important to assess
progress, but also when considering how social objectives are
translated into concrete measures and indicators.