Dar Es Salaam – Tanzania.
As Tanzania joins the global community in celebrating Women’s Month this March, it is vital to acknowledge both the considerable progress that has been made in promoting gender equality and the ongoing challenges that hinder women’s complete involvement in society. This year, our focus is not only on the achievements we have made but also on the critical need for increased investment in the empowerment of women, their leadership roles, and the realization of their rights—elements essential for advancing national development goals, promoting inclusive growth, and fostering a more equitable future for all.
Empowering Women: The Foundation of Tanzania’s Development
Women’s empowerment is the key to unlocking the full potential of Tanzania’s economy and society. Women are integral to agriculture, entrepreneurship, education, and healthcare throughout the country. In rural communities, where agriculture employs a significant portion of the population, women play a crucial role in food production; however, they frequently lack access to land ownership, financial resources, and modern farming techniques. Addressing these disparities through inclusive policies, training initiatives, and access to credit can elevate productivity and bolster the economy.
Moreover, empowering women means breaking down systemic barriers that restrict their opportunities and choices. Tanzania’s commitment to gender equality is evident in its investment in education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, particularly the ability to make their own life choices—as reflected in national policies such as the Women and Gender Development Policy and Vision 2025. These initiatives align with international frameworks like the Beijing Declaration and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. However, transforming these policies into tangible change remains a challenge that requires continuous effort to ensure real and lasting benefits for women and girls across all regions.
Women’s Leadership: A Pathway to Equality in Tanzania
Achieving genuine gender equality necessitates women’s active participation and leadership across all levels—from local communities to the highest government offices. In Tanzania, women have made notable advancements in leadership roles, with increased representation in Parliament, local government, and the business sector. The government’s goal of ensuring that women hold at least 30% of parliamentary seats is a positive move, but achieving true equality requires further commitment and action.
To cultivate women’s leadership, there needs to be a focus on mentorship programs, financial inclusion, and gender-responsive policies. Women leaders provide unique perspectives that drive inclusive policymaking, particularly in vital areas such as healthcare, education, and economic growth. By investing in leadership training and creating platforms for young women to participate in decision-making processes, Tanzania can pave the way for a future where women’s voices are essential to national development.
Gender Equality and Reproductive Rights: Cornerstones of Sustainable Development
The pursuit of gender equality is inextricably linked to ensuring access to quality education and healthcare, especially regarding sexual and reproductive health services. While Tanzania has made strides in reducing maternal mortality rates, many women and girls continue to face obstacles in obtaining necessary healthcare services.
The ICPD Programme of Action emphasizes the importance of reproductive rights as a fundamental aspect of gender equality. Expanding access to family planning, comprehensive sexual education, and maternal healthcare will empower women and adolescent girls to make informed choices regarding their lives, enabling them to contribute more effectively to society.
Curbing Gender-Based Violence: A National Imperative
Gender-based violence (GBV) remains a significant challenge in Tanzania, affecting women and girls across all socio-economic strata. According to the Tanzania Demographic and Health Survey, nearly 40% of women aged 15-49 have experienced physical violence, with child marriage impacting around 30% of adolescent girls, and female genital mutilation (FGM) still prevalent in certain regions. Although legislative measures like the Law of the Child Act and the National Plan of Action to End Violence Against Women and Children offer a framework for change, effective enforcement and community engagement are essential.
Ending GBV must be a top priority for the government, policymakers, and society at large. This necessitates a comprehensive approach that includes stronger legal protections, accessible justice for survivors, public awareness initiatives, and community-based solutions that challenge detrimental social norms. Faith-based organizations, traditional leaders, and civil society have pivotal roles in shifting mindsets and championing a violence-free society where women and girls from all walks of life, including those with disabilities, can thrive throughout their lives.
Charting the Future
As we honor the accomplishments of women this Women’s Month, let us renew our dedication to creating a world where gender equality is the standard, not the exception. Looking forward to Vision 2050 and the global Agenda 2030, prioritizing gender equality is not only a moral obligation but also an economic and social necessity. The government, private sector, civil society, and development partners must collaborate to dismantle barriers that impede women’s progress. This includes investing in education, health, and economic opportunities while ensuring women’s involvement in decision-making processes.
In this Women’s Month, we affirm our commitment to empowering Tanzanian women and girls. By fostering leadership, bolstering legal protections, and enhancing access to education and healthcare, we can cultivate a future where every woman and girl has the chance to realize her full potential. The journey towards gender equality is a collective duty—one that calls for solidarity, decisive action, steadfast commitment, and a mutual vision for a just and equitable Tanzania that respects and supports the inherent rights, dignity, and potential of all women.
