Dr. Dorothy Gwajima, the Minister for Community Development, Gender, Women, and Special Groups, shared her reflections on the success of the 2025 International Women’s Day celebrations, held on May 12, 2025.
She praised the event as a significant milestone in advancing gender equality and empowering women, marking 30 years of progress since the Beijing Platform for Action.
The Minister acknowledged the hard work and dedication of the National Committee, led by Ms. Sara Masasi, as well as the invaluable support of stakeholders and sponsors, which made the celebration a success.
Dr. Gwajima emphasized that this year’s celebration was not just an occasion for festivity, but also a crucial platform for reflecting on and celebrating the progress women have made in the past three decades.
“This event was a collective achievement that highlights the advancements made by women in various sectors economic, political, and social,” Dr. Gwajima remarked.
“It was not just a celebration, but a powerful reminder of the importance of continuing to empower women and support their rights.”
The Minister further expressed her gratitude to the sponsors for their generous contributions, which helped make the event possible and underscored the ongoing commitment of the Tanzanian government, led by President Samia Suluhu Hassan, to advancing women’s development.
Dr. Gwajima reassured attendees that the government would continue to work hand-in-hand with stakeholders, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in driving sustainable and meaningful change for women’s empowerment.
Dr. John Jingu, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, encouraged stakeholders to continue their joint efforts in ensuring the successful implementation of gender equality initiatives and the empowerment of women, which are essential for Tanzania’s overall development.
Ms. Sara Masasi, Chairperson of the National Committee for the 2025 International Women’s Day celebrations, expressed her gratitude to the government for trusting them with the responsibility of organizing the event.
She reiterated her commitment to working alongside the government and other partners to further the agenda of women's rights and development.
Stakeholders such as Tanzania Commercial Bank (TCB) also expressed their ongoing support. Adam Mihayo, a representative from TCB, affirmed that the bank will continue working closely with the government, particularly in empowering women economically through key programs.
The Ministry of Community Development, Gender, Women, and Special Groups held a post-event meeting with stakeholders to evaluate the success of the 2025 International Women’s Day celebration and discuss strategies for enhancing future initiatives to further women’s development across Tanzania.