In a significant effort to combat violence against women and children, particularly the harmful practice of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), Dr. Dorothy Gwajima, the Minister for Community Development, Gender, Women, and Special Groups, has called on all district councils in Tanzania to allocate specific budgets to support victims of FGM.
This announcement was made during anti-FGM celebrations held in Tarime District, Mara Region, over the weekend. The event marked the opening of a new service center designed to offer a safe space for victims of violence.
Dr. Gwajima highlighted the importance of district councils dedicating resources to help victims, stressing the need to create safe environments for those affected by FGM.
She praised the contributions of various groups working to provide shelter and support, recognizing the government's role in leading these efforts.
Dr. Vincent Naano, the Bunda District Commissioner, spoke on behalf of Mara Regional Commissioner Colonel Evans Mtambi.
He emphasized the important role of the Police Force, especially special children's desks, in addressing cases of violence.
He also suggested forming anti-violence clubs in schools, encouraging students to report any abuse they witness.
Mark Schreiner, representing the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Country Representative in Tanzania, reaffirmed UNFPA's commitment to supporting Tanzania’s National Development Vision and policies aimed at ending violence against women and children.
Theresa Zitting, Finland's Ambassador to Tanzania, expressed her support for the opening of the new center, emphasizing the need for continued collaboration with the Tanzanian government to assist vulnerable girls and women.
Valerian Mgani from the ATFGM Masanga organization highlighted that the new center would simplify access to services for victims, helping them get the support they need.
Michael Marwa from the C-Sema organization stressed the importance of community involvement in fighting FGM, urging people to report abuse through a dedicated hotline.
Subisya Kabuje, Assistant Director of Social Welfare Services in the President's Office, announced that approximately Shs. 541.152 million had been allocated for building joint centers to support victims.
She urging people to report GBV and VAC through the dedicated 116 Natonal Child Helpline.
According to the Tanzania Demographic and Health Survey (TDHS-MIS), certain regions have seen significant reductions in FGM rates from 2015/16 to 2022/23. For example, Manyara reduced from 58% to 43%, Dodoma from 41% to 18%, Mara from 32% to 28%, and Singida from 31% to 20%.
