By Our Reporter
The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Energy, Dr. Doto Biteko, has called on society to strengthen efforts in providing education and opportunities for girls, starting at the family level.
He emphasized that families are the foundation of development and play a key role in shaping the future of girls.
Speaking in Dar es Salaam during a forum organized by Mwananchi Communications under the theme Citizen Rising Woman, as part of the International Women’s Day celebrations on March 8, 2025, Dr. Biteko highlighted the importance of investing in girls' education.
“We must start at the family level because that is the foundation of community development. Every society progresses when families prioritize education and opportunities for their children, especially girls,” he said.
Dr. Biteko acknowledged Tanzania’s progress in empowering women, including poverty reduction, improved healthcare access, and increased participation in leadership roles.
He stressed the importance of recognizing the achievements made under the 12 key areas of the Beijing Conference while continuing to address challenges that women face.
“As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we must also celebrate the progress we have made in advancing women's rights and addressing challenges highlighted in the Beijing framework,” he said.
He pointed out that issues such as gender-based violence, climate change, and limited gender awareness—especially in rural areas—still need urgent attention. Quoting President Samia Suluhu Hassan, he reminded the audience of her call for meaningful gender equality.
“I would like to remind you of the words of our President, Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, who said last year: ‘I would like to see gender equality at 50/50, not just for statistical purposes, but to ensure that women advance with the ability to bring about change.’”
Dr. Biteko also encouraged women to actively participate in the upcoming General Election, not just as voters but as candidates, advocates, and decision-makers. He urged them to step forward and take leadership roles in shaping the country’s future.
Meanwhile, the Minister for Information, Culture, Arts, and Sports, Prof. Palamagamba Kabudi, stressed the importance of educating society about gender equality.
He urged people to read books that highlight women’s empowerment and liberation from discrimination.
Quoting a book written by the late Father of the Nation, Mwalimu Julius Kambarage Nyerere, over 80 years ago, Prof. Kabudi noted that the fight for gender equality started long ago.
He said the rise of women in leadership, including the presidency of Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, is proof that progress has been made.
“Mwalimu Nyerere’s vision has been realized with the rise of women leaders, and a clear example is our President, Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan,” he said.
Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner Albert Chalamila added that it is time to eliminate harmful cultural practices that contribute to gender-based violence. He called for a shift in societal attitudes to create a safer environment for women and girls.
Earlier, the Acting Chief Executive Officer of Mwananchi Communications, Victor Mushi, expressed gratitude to the government and development partners for supporting efforts to recognize successful women.
He emphasized that celebrating women’s achievements is key to inspiring more girls to pursue their dreams and break barriers.