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In the dynamic and often complex landscape of African socio-economic development, a few individuals emerge as transformative forces—applying intellect, passion, and purpose to shape a better future. Among these luminaries stands Dr. Jane Mpapalika, a distinguished economist and Senior Researcher at REPOA, Tanzania’s leading public policy think tank.
For over a decade, Dr. Mpapalika has been a pivotal voice in shaping evidence-based policy in Tanzania and across Africa. Her work is not confined to theory; it is a powerful, results-driven pursuit of equitable, sustainable development. Her scholarship and leadership underscore a holistic view of development—recognising the vital interdependence between economic stability, social equity, and environmental resilience.
A Journey Rooted in Knowledge and Global Perspective
Dr. Mpapalika’s career is built on a solid academic foundation and a progressively international outlook. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from St. Augustine University of Tanzania (2008), followed by an MA in Economics from Leeds University Business School (UK, 2010), and later a PhD in Economics from the University of Witwatersrand (South Africa, 2018). Her doctoral thesis—Essays on Sovereign Risk Management in African Economies—offered crucial insights into debt sustainability, foreign currency risk, and financial instruments for African economies.
Her professional path blends continental expertise with global exposure. As a UN Young Professional at the UN Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), she developed country-specific macroeconomic models for Tanzania, Namibia, and Seychelles, equipping her with high-level policy modeling skills applicable across the continent.
At REPOA, Dr. Mpapalika works within the Capacity Building and Collaborations Department, where her role transcends academic research. She is instrumental in strengthening the policy ecosystem—ensuring that research not only informs but transforms public decision-making and human capital development in Tanzania.
At the Forefront of Policy, Gender Equity, and Holistic Development
Dr. Mpapalika’s work spans an expansive range of policy domains, positioning her as a truly interdisciplinary development expert. Her focus areas include:
- Macroeconomics & Fiscal Policy: Her primary area, reflected in multiple scholarly publications and her influential PhD research.
- Governance & Public Sector Reform: Addressing corruption, inequality, and structural reform.
- Financing Instruments: She is a leading voice on Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) and innovative development financing.
- Gender Equality: As REPOA’s Gender Focal Person, she integrates gender into economic policy. She has co-authored several Afrobarometer dispatches on public perceptions of gender equity in Tanzania.
- Climate & Environment: From analysing climate perception to implementing climate-smart agriculture programs in Kagera.
- Education & Digital Divide: Her research during the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted shifts in girls’ enrollment and the need for EdTech investment.
- Health Economics: With comparative studies on government spending and health outcomes, notably in Nigeria.
Research Contributions and Practical Impact
Dr. Mpapalika’s Google Scholar record includes 76 citations and an h-index of 5, reflecting a growing body of high-impact publications. Her scholarly output balances rigorous research with broad accessibility, including:
- “The Determinants of Sovereign Risk Premium in African Countries” (2019)
- “Alternative Financing Instruments for African Economies” (2020)
- “The Impact of COVID-19 on Educational Inequality in Tanzania” (2023)
- Co-authored Afrobarometer policy briefs on gender, climate, and public health
Her practical engagements further exemplify her leadership:
- Climate-Smart Agriculture (Kagera): Trained over 500 youth and women in sustainable agriculture, targeting 15,000+ more.
- East African Women & Youth Empowerment Hub: A cross-border initiative advancing economic inclusion.
- U.S. AidData–REPOA Report: Revealed $2.8B in U.S. contributions to Tanzania (2012–2022), influencing policy dialogues.
- Smart Farming Projects: Including hydroponics, cage fishing, and Azolla feed production.
- Dar Ferry Market Feasibility Study: Paving the way for revitalising Dar es Salaam’s coastal economy.
- NEEC Contributions: Supporting national economic empowerment strategies in Tanzania.
Recognitions, Awards, and Affiliations
Dr. Mpapalika’s work has earned her wide recognition:
- Most Influential Young Economist in Sub-Saharan Africa (2022)
- Oxford University Achievement Award in Oil, Gas, and Mining (2019)
- UN Young Professional (2019)
- Wits University Postgraduate Merit Award (2014)
- Geneva/Peking University Research Award (2016)
Her professional affiliations include:
- African Economic Research Consortium (AERC)
- Econometric Society
- Economic Society of Tanzania
- South African Economic Society
She collaborates regularly with the World Bank, GIZ, NESC, and NBER, reinforcing her influence within the African and global development policy space.
Leadership, Mentorship, and Advocacy
A strong advocate for women’s empowerment, Dr. Mpapalika serves as a mentor, speaker, and advocate, regularly urging young professionals—especially women—to value persistence, self-assessment, and resilience.
“Every little step matters. One day, they will finally see light at the end of the tunnel.”
Her public engagements emphasise transforming adversity into strength, a value shaped by her upbringing and doctoral journey. She calls on Tanzanians to be “aggressive in their global aspirations” and continues to use her platform to build bridges between policy and people.
A Legacy in Motion
Dr. Jane Mpapalika exemplifies the future of African economic leadership: academically grounded, globally connected, socially committed, and unflinchingly focused on action.
Her unique ability to combine macroeconomic analysis, gender equity, environmental sustainability, and grassroots empowerment positions her as one of the most holistic development thinkers of her generation.
Not merely an economist, she is an architect of a more equitable and prosperous Africa.