The First Lady of Zanzibar and Chairperson of the Zanzibar Maisha Bora Foundation (ZMBF), Mama Mariam Mwinyi, has assured Finland of Zanzibar’s commitment to strengthening partnerships that promote the welfare and empowerment of women and children.
Speaking during a meeting with the First Lady of Finland, Ms. Suzanne Innes Stubb, at the ZMBF offices in Migombani on May 15, 2025, Mama Mariam emphasized the need for deeper cooperation to combat gender-based violence, poverty, and other social injustices.
“Zanzibar is open and ready to work closely with Finland in ensuring that women and children are protected, empowered, and given the opportunities they deserve,” said Mama Mariam. “Our shared values can help us advance this cause together.”she added
She noted that ZMBF has built strong working relationships with development partners and international organizations to deliver on its core mission. She invited Finland to join hands with the Foundation in scaling up these efforts.
“ZMBF is driven by the belief that no woman or child should be left behind. That’s why we focus on economic empowerment, social justice, and education to build a better future for them,” she added.
Mama Mariam outlined several of the Foundation’s initiatives, including nutrition and maternal health education, which she said have led to significant reductions in maternal and child mortality.
“When women are educated on safe motherhood and proper nutrition, we are not just saving lives we are investing in stronger communities,” she said.
She also highlighted the Tumaini Kits initiative, which provides sanitary pads to schoolgirls, enabling them to attend school with dignity and confidence.
“By giving girls access to menstrual products, we are removing a barrier that often keeps them out of school. We are creating safer, more inclusive learning environments,” she emphasized.
In the area of agriculture, Mama Mariam explained how ZMBF supports women in seaweed farming by enhancing product quality and adding value to their work.
“We want women seaweed farmers to thrive not just to survive. That means helping them improve their products and access better markets,” she said.
She further noted the Foundation’s commitment to protecting children from abuse through public awareness and advocacy platforms.
“Every child deserves a safe and nurturing environment. At ZMBF, we use every platform available to fight abuse and raise awareness of children’s rights,” she affirmed.
Mama Mariam called on the Finnish government to support these initiatives through programs and funding that benefit both sides.
“We believe that with Finland’s support, we can expand our reach and deepen our impact. This is a partnership that can truly change lives.”
For her part, the First Lady of Finland, Ms. Suzanne Innes Stubb, expressed admiration for the long-standing friendship between Tanzania and Finland, which spans more than five decades.
“I am deeply inspired by the work ZMBF is doing and the real difference it’s making in the lives of women and children in Zanzibar,” she said.
“Finland remains committed to supporting development initiatives that promote equality, health, and opportunity.”she added
Ms. Innes Stubb praised ZMBF’s focus on fighting gender-based violence, promoting social equality, and advancing seaweed farming as a source of income for women.
“It’s impressive to see how Zanzibar is not only addressing critical issues like violence and health but also innovating in sectors like agriculture to empower women economically,” she added.
The meeting underscored the shared commitment of both nations to foster inclusive development and improve the lives of vulnerable populations, especially women and children.