By: Zainab Ally – Kilombero
The Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA) joined millions of women worldwide in celebrating the International Women’s Day, commemorated at the regional level today, March 8, 2025, in Ifakara, Kilombero District, Morogoro Region.
The event brought together thousands of women from various institutions, organizations, and communities across the region, aiming to promote gender equality and women's empowerment, particularly in the conservation of natural resources.
TANAPA seized the opportunity to showcase its conservation efforts and educate the public on the importance of preserving natural resources.
Through banners, scenic illustrations of national parks, and patriotic songs that captivated the crowd, TANAPA successfully engaged thousands of women who participated in the grand parade.
The procession started in the heart of Ifakara town, covering various routes while delivering messages of gender equality and women’s rights.
Speaking at the event, the Chief Warden of Udzungwa Mountains National Park, Theodora Batiho, highlighted TANAPA’s role in integrating modern conservation techniques to raise awareness in local communities.
“We have introduced a mobile education unit with a special vehicle that screens videos on conservation, environmental destruction, and the dangers of deforestation.
This initiative has brought significant positive changes in environmental awareness,” she stated.
She further emphasized the importance of alternative energy solutions, saying, “We are promoting the use of energy-saving stoves to reduce reliance on firewood and charcoal. This small change can make a big difference in protecting our forests.”
During the celebrations, Kilombero District Commissioner, Advocate Dunstan Kyobya, who represented Morogoro Regional Commissioner Adam Kighoma Malima, commended TANAPA for its contribution to conservation and community engagement.
“The role of women in conservation cannot be overlooked. Women are at the center of household energy use and environmental protection. Empowering them means securing our natural resources for future generations,” he noted.
He also urged women to embrace the vision of the President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan.
“The President has placed great emphasis on women’s empowerment and economic development. Let us all work hard and take advantage of opportunities available to transform our communities,” Kyobya said.
The event’s theme, "Girls and Women 2025: Strengthening Equality, Rights, and Empowerment," encouraged women to take the lead in fostering a society based on equity and equal opportunities.
It also underscored their crucial role in conserving natural resources and the environment for the benefit of future generations.
TANAPA, together with other stakeholders, demonstrated unity and collective efforts as fundamental principles in building a sustainable nation.
“Gender equality, women’s empowerment, and conservation are not separate issues—they go hand in hand. When we invest in women, we invest in the future of our environment,” Batiho concluded.