By The Respondent Reporter
The Minister for Community Development, Gender, Women, and Special Groups, Dr. Dorothy Gwajima, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fostering gender equality and nurturing a new generation of skilled, confident, and visionary female leaders.
She emphasized that under the leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, Tanzania is implementing multiple strategic initiatives to empower women and bridge the gender gap in leadership.
Speaking in Dar es Salaam on February 11, 2025, during the launch of the Young Women Leadership Program, Dr. Gwajima highlighted that these efforts are anchored in the National Plan for the Prevention of Violence Against Women and Children (MTAKUWWA).
She stressed that investing in female leadership strengthens society, drives progress, and ensures sustainable development.
However, she noted that achieving true gender parity requires collective efforts from all stakeholders.
The Young Women Leadership Program, spearheaded by Care International Tanzania and the Mwanamke Initiative Foundation (MIF), aims to equip young female leaders aged 20 to 35 with the necessary skills to participate effectively in decision-making bodies.
Dr. Gwajima pointed out that despite progress, women remain underrepresented in leadership roles.
She cited statistics indicating that women’s representation in Parliament stands at approximately 36% to 37%, while their participation in local government leadership remains low.
"In the private sector, only 20% of women hold top leadership positions, such as Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) or board members.
Additionally, deep-rooted cultural and traditional barriers continue to limit women’s participation in politics, decision-making, and economic leadership.
These challenges underscore the urgent need for more structured interventions and policy-driven efforts to accelerate gender equality," she stated.
Care International Tanzania Country Director, Prudence Masako, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that empowering young women in leadership goes beyond representation—it is about national transformation.
"Investing in young female leaders is not just about numbers; it is about service, inclusivity, and building a nation with a stronger future.
When women are empowered to lead, policies become more inclusive, decision-making is enriched with diverse perspectives, and society as a whole prospers.
Today, we are not just launching a leadership program—we are launching a movement to cultivate a new generation of women leaders who will redefine Tanzania’s future," she remarked.
Meanwhile, MIF Chairperson, Wanu Hafidh Ameir, underscored the significance of leadership training for young women, saying it prepares them for crucial decision-making roles.
She also extended her gratitude to Care International for partnering in organizing the program, emphasizing that such collaborations are essential in fostering long-term change.