Women rally in Isles to boost economic, political participation

KISIWANDUI: WOMEN from across Tanzania are expected to meet in Pemba for a major convention aimed at strengthening their economic empowerment, recognising their contribution to national development and promoting greater participation in leadership and decision-making.

The gathering, scheduled for November 21 at Gombani Stadium, will also celebrate the leadership and development achievements of President Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan and Zanzibar President Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi, who is expected to officiate at the event.

The convention will bring together women from mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar, including female leaders from different political parties, and will mark the culmination of Women’s Week activities organised in Morogoro Region.

Speaking to journalists at the CCM main office in Kisiwandui, Women’s wing (UWT) Deputy Chairperson, Ms Zainab Shomari said the gathering would provide a platform for women from different regions, districts and constituencies to strengthen unity and solidarity.

Ms Shomari said President Samia has become a role model for women, demonstrating their ability to lead and contribute to national development through participation in senior government positions and decisionmaking.

She also commended President Mwinyi for the development progress recorded in Zanzibar under his leadership, saying the achievements have strengthened people’s hopes for a better future.

“Beyond recognising the two leaders, the convention will address issues affecting women, particularly economic empowerment through the government’s 10 per cent loan scheme targeting women, youth and people with disabilities,” she said.

ALSO READ: Mwinyi launches patient boat service for Kojani Islet

Ms Shomari urged women to organise themselves into groups and take advantage of the loans to establish and expand income-generating activities, improve their livelihoods and achieve greater economic independence.

She also highlighted the importance of essential social services, including access to clean and safe water, maternal and child healthcare, saying improvements in these areas directly benefit women, their families and communities.

“I urge women from both mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar to turn out in large numbers for the convention. Their participation will strengthen solidarity and encourage greater involvement of women in nation-building,” she said.