Commitment to Eradicating Violence Against Women and Girls in Tanzania

The European Union (EU) and its Member States are reiterating their strong dedication to eliminating violence against women and girls in Tanzania. With a significant investment exceeding €200 million aimed at promoting gender equality, Team Europe is actively working to address gender-based violence (GBV), empower women, enhance justice systems, and advocate for safe digital environments.

25 Years of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence

The year 2024 marks the 25th anniversary of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. This milestone symbolizes a quarter-century of heightened activism and a collective voice against violence toward women and girls.

On this important day, the EU and its member states solemnly reaffirm their commitment to combat all forms of violence against women and girls in Tanzania.

Understanding the Importance of an International Day

The designation of this day as “international” underscores its significance worldwide. Violence against women is a global concern transcending borders, cultures, races, and social classes, representing a grave violation of human rights. The statistics are alarming; globally, one in three women experiences physical or sexual violence during their lifetime, and one in five girls falls victim to child sexual abuse.

In Tanzania, the Social Institutions and Gender Index findings reveal that over half of women have encountered at least one form of violence in their lifetimes:

• Nearly half of women report experiencing intimate partner violence at least once.
• Half of the population believes it is acceptable for husbands to hit their wives under certain circumstances.
• Approximately 38% of reproductive-age women have unmet family planning needs.
• Child marriage affects 19% of girls, highlighting a significant societal issue.
• Over 2 million Tanzanian women have undergone female genital mutilation.

These shocking figures compel us to consider that if it is not an individual experience, it is likely that someone close—be it daughters, sisters, or schoolgirls—is being affected by violence. The impact of these experiences is profound and far-reaching.

Choosing to End Violence

This year’s national theme for the 16 Days of Activism is “Kuelekea Miaka +30 ya Beijing: CHAGUA Kutokomeza Ukatili wa Kijinsia,” highlighting the key concept of “CHOICE.” Ending violence does not occur by chance; it requires a conscious decision every day to take action and influence policymakers.

As Tanzania approaches its political elections, citizens have the power to choose leaders who are committed to addressing and eradicating gender-based violence at both community and national levels. This embodies the essence of democracy.

• On an individual level, we can choose to stand against GBV in our families, workplaces, and communities, clearly stating that violence against women and girls is unacceptable in any form—be it physical, psychological, or online.
• In our communities, we must choose to speak out, report incidents, and actively work to disrupt the cycle of violence. By breaking the silence, society as a whole stands to benefit.
• Together, we can influence decision-makers by advocating for laws and regulations that protect women and girls, ensuring that they can live free from violence across the country. We demand justice through effective mechanisms that protect victims.

Investing in Gender Equality and Empowerment

The EU and its member states are investing significantly in gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls, totaling over €200 million (approximately 545.2 billion TZS). Concrete initiatives include:

• Addressing harmful social norms and practices that perpetuate violence.
• Combating online violence and ensuring accountability for perpetrators while creating safe digital spaces for women and girls.
• Establishing gender and children desks in educational institutions, public spaces, and police stations to encourage victims to seek help.
• Supporting helplines, shelters, and services focused on the prevention and protection of women and girls.
• Training the justice sector, including prosecutors and investigators, to effectively handle cases of gender-based violence.
• Promoting social and economic inclusion to empower women, especially those who have experienced violence.

Celebrating Support and Advocacy

We commend the efforts of H.E. Samia Suluhu Hassan and male champions who are actively working to end violence against women and girls. Their actions exemplify the commitment to breaking stereotypes and ensuring opportunities for all.

A Call to Action

We urge the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania to strengthen efforts against violence during the electoral process, ensuring that female citizens can exercise their civil and political rights without fear of violence.

Congratulations to the WILDAF organization and the Mkuki coalition for their significant campaign efforts. We remain dedicated to promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment throughout these 16 Days of Activism and beyond.

Let us unite to prevent violence against women and girls!