President Samia Suluhu Hassan emphasized the significance of gender equality for Tanzania’s youth during International Women’s Day celebrations. She called for collective action to nurture respect for national values while acknowledging the progress made in women’s rights since the Beijing Conference. The government’s initiatives, focusing on land ownership and healthcare, are vital in promoting empowerment and addressing societal challenges to create an equitable environment.
In celebration of International Women’s Day on March 8, 2025, President Samia Suluhu Hassan emphasized the importance of fostering gender equality in Tanzania. Reflecting on the progress since the Beijing Conference 30 years prior, she stated that collective efforts are necessary to raise a generation that embodies respect for national values and mutual understanding. Her remarks were made during a ceremony held at Sheikh Amri Abeid Stadium in Arusha, themed “Accelerating Action.”
President Hassan acknowledged the strides Tanzania has made in women’s rights, such as increased representation of women in both government and the private sector. However, she asserted that further investment is needed in the youth of today to ensure they can engage in meaningful dialogue regarding gender issues, rather than merely voicing their opinions. The President also highlighted the need to prioritize land ownership for women as part of advancing equality.
In her address, President Hassan expressed concern over the decline in moral values among the youth and emphasized the importance of nurturing self-reliance and socially acceptable values free from discrimination. She pointed out that gender equality should be regarded as a constitutional matter, affirming that “all humans are born free and equal,” thus ensuring an equitable society is not merely an act of charity or favoritism.
Minister for Community Development, Gender, and Special Groups, Dr. Dorothy Gwajima, underlined this year’s theme, “Women and Girls 2025: Strengthening Rights, Equality, and Economic Empowerment,” aimed at enhancing women’s economic empowerment nationwide. Celebrations since March 1, 2025, included forums in seven regions focusing on specific challenges faced by women and offered avenues to showcase handmade products while learning from successful women.
Dr. Gwajima also mentioned the Samia Legal Aid campaign, which has successfully provided legal assistance to women victims of domestic abuse, highlighting partnerships with legal authorities. She noted that these initiatives have the potential to create economic empowerment platforms for women and endorsed education committees in entrepreneurship.
During the event, Arusha Regional Commissioner Paul Makonda emphasized the preparation efforts that included over 400 booths offering various services. He appealed to President Hassan for support in establishing legal aid camps in the region to provide assistance for citizens unable to afford legal representation, stressing the importance of accessibility to legal resources.
In conclusion, President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s recent address underscores a commitment to advancing gender equality and empowering Tanzania’s youth. With significant strides made since the Beijing Conference, the collective responsibility lies with all Tanzanians to cultivate a generation that values equality and engages in constructive discussions. The government’s initiatives, including laws supporting women’s rights and legal assistance programs, are crucial steps towards achieving an inclusive society and addressing the pressing challenges of the youth today.
Original Source: www.ghanaweb.com
