NEW YORK: THE Secretary General of the CCM Youth League (UVCCM) and youth rights advocate, Jokate Mwegelo, has participated in the 69th Session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69) held at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, representing Tanzania.
During the session, Jokate discussed how legal reforms initiated by President Samia Suluhu Hassan have increased women’s participation in decision-making bodies in Tanzania. Jokate noted that President Samia has respected women by providing them with leadership positions, which has enhanced the representation of women in various sectors.
Jokate shared her leadership journey, highlighting the many challenges she has faced, which she has turned into opportunities. She emphasized that through careful policies and strong support systems, she has led efforts that enable young people, especially women, to realize that leadership is achievable. Jokate recalled significant steps she took while serving as the District Commissioner of Kisarawe, where she oversaw the construction of the first girls’ boarding school, Jokate Mwegelo Secondary School.
ALSO READ: Mama Samia legal aid campaign kicks off tomorrow in Katavi
While serving as District Commissioner, Jokate was appointed as District Commissioner in two other areas, and she is now the first female Secretary General of UVCCM since its establishment in 1978. She stressed that her experience proves that women can occupy top leadership positions and bring about positive change in society.
Jokate acknowledged that although Tanzania has increased women’s representation, many women are still underrepresented at higher decision-making levels. She emphasized the importance of strengthening leadership training programs, providing funding, and implementing reforms that promote gender equality. Additionally, she commended the Tanzanian government for using digital platforms to change perceptions about women and for establishing sustainable funding systems.
At the session, Jokate participated in discussions alongside various prominent international leaders, including Sima Bahous, Executive Director of UN Women, Evangelos C. Sekeris, Permanent Representative of Greece to the United Nations, Sofia Zacharaki, Minister of Social Welfare of Greece, Michelle Bachelet, the first female President of Chile, and Maria Fernanda, President of the 73rd International Community Assembly Conference.
