The Secretary General of the Conservation, Hotels, Domestic Workers, Social Services and Consultancy Union (CHODAWU), Saidi Wamba, has called for greater national attention to the domestic workers’ sector, saying it remains one of the most neglected segments of the labour force despite its significant contribution to Tanzania’s economy.
Mr. Wamba made the remarks yesterday during the closing ceremony of a five-day peer-educator training programme for 25 domestic workers from six regions.
The programme was organised by the International Labour Organization (ILO), the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), the Government and CHODAWU.
He said domestic workers provide essential support to families and professionals, enabling many Tanzanians to participate fully in the country’s economic activities.
“People who work in offices or factories depend heavily on domestic workers. They take care of homes, children, the sick and property. They are important contributors to national development,” he said.
Mr. Wamba noted that although domestic workers are not visible in industrial or formal office settings, their role remains crucial.
He called on the Government to continue safeguarding their rights so that they can occupy their rightful place in society.
He added that empowering domestic workers with training and knowledge boosts their professionalism.
“I believe the perception that domestic workers are less important will soon change. Through education and support from our partners, we will continue strengthening their understanding of their rights and responsibilities,” he said.
He encouraged the newly trained peer educators to share the knowledge they gained with other domestic workers across the country.
Chiku Semfuko, Project Coordinator for the ILO initiative on promoting decent work and recognition for domestic workers, praised the trainees for their commitment. She said their selection as peer educators was based on their active participation in previous workshops.
“You are the first group of CHODAWU peer educators. Use the knowledge of labour laws and decent work principles to guide your colleagues. Be strong ambassadors for CHODAWU and uphold the rights of both workers and employers,” she said.
Ms. Semfuko added that the certificates awarded to the participants reflect recognised training that should help them advance advocacy efforts within the sector.
Halima Sufian, Coordinator for the Domestic Workers Desk at the Prime Minister’s Office (Labour, Employment and Labour Relations), urged the participants to apply the lessons learned and help expand public understanding of the sector.
“Please be ambassadors in your communities. The domestic workers’ sector is recognised, and legal mechanisms exist to address challenges and ensure your welfare,” she said.
One of the peer educators, who also serves as Chairperson of CHODAWU, Zanin Athuman, thanked ILO, CHODAWU and the Government for the opportunity. She pledged to share the training with other domestic workers who were unable to attend.
She said the programme helped them realise the importance of their sector, which many had previously underestimated.