DC inaugurates women’s economic empowerment platforms

DODOMA: KONGWA District Council in Dodoma Region has begun establishing women’s economic empowerment platforms across all 22 wards and 87 villages.

The initiative was announced by the District Community Development Officer, Faraja Kasuwi during a recent meeting with residents of Sagara Ward. Kasuwi said that the platforms will span multiple sectors, empowering women to actively participate in development activities.

“The purpose of these platforms is to provide women with a space to discuss and engage in various areas, including business, agriculture, livestock, fisheries, mining, construction, transportation, education, citizenship, ethics, parenting and climate change adaptation,” Kasuwi said.

“Other focus areas include arts, technology and other community development initiatives. Each platform will have specific responsibilities to remain active and seize opportunities in their localities.” Kasuwi noted that the district, through the Department of Community Development, is revitalising these platforms following new guidelines.

ALSO READ: How phones transform women’s businesses

The platforms will be linked to village and ward governments, which will oversee their operations, provide opportunities, organise meetings to build women’s capacities and submit regular reports to the council.

The officer added that women have warmly welcomed the initiative, expressing confidence that the government is genuinely committed to reducing poverty and promoting self-reliance among women.

According to Kasuwi, the platforms will also benefit from connections to the council’s 10 per cent loan fund and coordination with ward community development officers.

These officers will link the platforms to technical experts such as extension officers who will advise on activities and help women access markets. Kasuwi urged women to actively participate in all meetings and opportunities to gain knowledge and deepen their understanding of development issues.

The rollout began last week and has so far reached the wards of Iduo, Chamkoroma and Sagara. The initiative will continue until all wards in Kongwa District are covered, after which reports will be compiled and submitted at the regional level.