TZ, Belgium partner to combat GBV

TANZANIA: TANZANIA has unveiled a new weapon in the fight against Gender Based Violence (GBV) and harmful cultural practices with the launch of the Badilika! Tokomeza Ukatili (Change! End Violence) campaign.

The initiative launched by Minister for Community Development, Gender, Women, and Special Groups, Dr Dorothy Gwajima, aims to root out violence and empower communities.

The campaign is a collaborative effort, supported by a bilateral programme between the Tanzanian and Belgian governments, and implemented by Enabel, the Belgian Development Agency.

Enabel, already a significant presence in the Kigoma region, is also behind the five-year (2023– 2027) “Wezesha Binti” (Empower the Girl) project. This vital initiative focuses on economically uplifting adolescent girls aged 14–49 and championing gender equality.

The launch event, held at Mwanga Centre grounds in KigoTZ, Belgium partner to combat GBV ma Municipality, brought together a diverse group of stakeholders. Government officials, NGOs, women entrepreneurs, youth groups, educational institutions, and courageous GBV survivors stood united with members of the public, signalling a collective commitment to change.

During the ceremony, Dr Gwajima issued urged communities to abandon the harmful attitudes and behaviours that perpetuate violence against women and children.

“Let us start anew with this campaign, driven by fresh determination, greater urgency, and an unwavering belief that change is possible.

“I call upon all of you to take ownership of this initiative, with the strong support of our valued partner, Enabel, standing alongside us. Together, we must ensure its sustainability and impact,” she said.

She further said the remarkable contributions of these stakeholders in other regions.

Dr Gwajima explained the potential for widespread change, reminding the audience that they had witnessed the remarkable contributions of stakeholders in other regions.

She then called upon them to step forward, take action, and be the change, assuring them that if they united to end violence, they would take pride in their efforts and the nation would reap the benefits.

Dr Gwajima stressed that every citizen has a crucial role to play in this transformation, encouraging individuals to become ambassadors for change.

The campaign aims to recruit a staggering 150,000 ambassadors in the Kigoma region alone. “I call upon each of you to join this movement and champion the fight against violence,” she added.

The Minister highlighted the government’s commitment to eradicating GBV, reinforced by robust policies such as the 2023 National Gender Policy and the National Plan to End Violence Against Women and Children (NPA-VAWC II).

She specifically commended Enabel for their steadfast partnership in combating GBV and empowering women and girls through various development programs.

“The ‘Wezesha Binti’ project in Kigoma is a shining example of how young girls are being equipped with education, skills, and employment opportunities, laying the foundation for a brighter future,” she said.

Enabel Country Director, Mr Koen Goekint, expressed gratitude for the Tanzanian government’s strong collaboration and warm reception of the campaign.

He reiterated Enabel’s commitment to working alongside Tanzania to combat GBV, promote gender equality, and empower women both economically and socially.

“We all need to take space, raise our voice, and be part of the collective effort to end violence against women and girls today,” Mr Goekint said. “Let’s begin with the beginning of lasting change.”

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Representing the Kigoma Regional Commissioner, Buhigwe District Commissioner Michael Ngayanila pledged the region’s full support for the campaign.

He assured close cooperation with Enabel and local communities to ensure the complete eradication of violence in Kigoma.