Regional Administrative Secretary CP Salum Hamduni (center)flanked by WiLDAF officials emphasizes the importance of constructive dialogue among participants. Photo: Courtesy
By Adonis Byemelwa
The Shinyanga, Regional Administrative Secretary CP Salum Hamduni, announced that the government in collaboration with the Women in Law and Development in Africa (WiLDAF), is set to conduct training sessions for parents and guardians in Shinyanga.
The aim is to reduce and ultimately eradicate gender-based violence (GBV) against women and children, an issue that has long plagued the region. Historically, Shinyanga has been among the leading regions in Tanzania for gender violence, particularly in the realm of child marriages.
Speaking during a meeting held on September 30, 2024, to gather input for the second phase of the regional strategic plan aimed at preventing GBV, CP Hamduni emphasized the importance of constructive dialogue among participants.
The meeting took place at the Shinyanga Regional Commissioner’s Office and included various stakeholders, such as Bi. Joyce David Kessy from WiLDAF and representatives from the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). “I encourage everyone to utilize this meeting effectively and prioritize the broader interests of the communities we represent, ensuring that our discussions yield tangible results,” CP Hamduni stated.
Bi. Joyce Kessy highlighted that the strategic plan’s improvements are being driven by the "CHAGUO LANGU HAKI YANGU" project, which is implemented by WiLDAF with support from UNFPA and funded by the Finnish government. She reiterated that GBV has been condemned by the government, community leaders, and various organizations, marking it as an ongoing battle requiring collective efforts.
The discussion comes at a critical time, as gender discrimination and violence against women remain pressing issues in Shinyanga. Cultural norms and economic challenges often contribute to the prevalence of practices such as child marriage and domestic violence. Many women and girls face barriers to education and economic opportunities, which perpetuates cycles of poverty and dependency, making them more vulnerable to abuse.
Efforts to empower women through education and advocacy are crucial for changing societal attitudes toward gender roles and ensuring that women and children can live free from violence and discrimination. The collaboration among government, NGOs, and community members aims to foster a safer environment for all, where gender equality can flourish and human rights are upheld.