Tanzanian President, Calls For True Gender Balance
Gender Equality Takes Center Stage in Dar es Salaam
The importance of gender equality resonated profoundly during the fourth edition of 'Rising Woman', held on March 8th, 2024, in Dar es Salaam. The United Nations Global Compact Network Tanzania participated in this forum, organized by Mwananchi Communications. This year's theme "Count Her In" aimed to champion gender equality across various sectors, bringing together notable figures from government, private sector, and civil society.
The Guest of Honor, Her Excellency Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, the President of the United Republic of Tanzania, emphasized the significance of genuine gender equality, moving beyond mere numerical representation to ensure tangible contributions and delivery.
"We aim not just for a 50/50 gender balance in numbers, but for a true 50/50 gender balance with a focus on tangible contributions and delivery," President Samia remarked, echoing the sentiment that quality and effectiveness should underpin efforts towards gender equality.
During the panel discussion, the Executive Director of the Global Compact Network Tanzania, Ms. Marsha Macatta-Yambi, underscored the importance of collaboration between the private sector and government to accelerate progress towards gender equality and inclusivity.
"Forward Faster is a great initiative to help companies focus on areas where business can have an outsized impact on the Sustainable Development Goals. Gender equality is one of these crucial areas, alongside climate action, living wage, SDG finance and investment, and water resilience," Ms. Marsha highlighted, emphasizing the pivotal role of businesses in advancing gender equality.
Ms. Marsha further stressed the significance of integrating global goals into local business agendas. "Empowering both boys and girls is not just a moral imperative; it amplifies the global agenda for sustainable development," she stated, aligning with the broader mission of making global goals local business.
The panel discussion featured diverse perspectives from panelists, including Dr. Anna Makakala, Commissioner General of Immigration Tanzania, Ms. Miranda Naiman, Founding Partner of Empower, and Dr. Obinna Anyalebechi, Managing Director of Serengeti Breweries Limited (SBL). Moderated by Ms. Brenda Msangi, CEO of Comprehensive Community Based Rehabilitation in Tanzania (CCBRT), the discussion delved into actionable strategies for advancing gender equality across sectors.
As President Samia reiterated, "Now I would like to have 50/50 gender equality, but for those who are capable of moving forward with us. It is not just about filling in numbers; it is about achieving 50/50 gender equality with delivery." Her words underscored the imperative of ensuring substantive progress towards gender equality, anchored in capability and commitment.
The Rising Woman Conference served as a rallying cry for collective action towards achieving genuine gender equality in Tanzania, reflecting a shared commitment to inclusivity, empowerment, and progress.
In a world where gender equality remains a pressing issue, such initiatives provide a beacon of hope, inspiring transformative change and laying the foundation for a more equitable and prosperous future.
