Parents urged to strengthen families
DAR ES SALAAM: MINISTER for Community Development, Gender, Women and Special Groups Dr Dorothy Gwajima has urged parents and guardians to prioritise responsible parenting, warning that weak family foundations can lead to wider social problems affecting communities and the nation.
Dr Gwajima made the remarks yesterday during the opening of the International Women’s Day Celebrations Symposium held at the University of Dar es Salaam Library Hall.
Organised by Tanzania Broadcasting Corporation (TBC), the symposium was held under the theme “My Family, My Nation”, highlighting the crucial role families play in shaping moral values, social stability and national development. “Family is the core and foundation of every society,” Dr Gwajima said, adding that when families fail to perform their responsibilities effectively, it often marks the beginning of moral decay, conflicts and broader national challenges.
She urged parents and guardians to prioritise proper upbringing of children by providing adequate nutrition, ensuring their safety and protecting them from physical and psychological abuse.
Dr Gwajima also encouraged parents to dedicate time to communicate with their children from an early age, saying strong bonds built through open communication help children develop confidence and responsible behaviour.
“Families have the responsibility to pass on good traditions and values from one generation to the next,” she said, noting that strong families help nurture responsible citizens who contribute positively to society.
The minister warned that lack of love, patience and respect for God, coupled with harmful customs and practices within families, can create conflicts and hinder healthy child development.
She also cautioned young people against rushing into marriage or relationships before they are emotionally and socially prepared, saying such decisions should be made carefully.
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Dr Gwajima further highlighted the growing influence of technology and social media on children and young people, warning that uncontrolled use of digital devices can expose them to harmful content and abuse.
She said a 2022 study showed that 67 per cent of children aged between 12 and 17 access social media through phones belonging to relatives, parents, guardians or friends.
The study also revealed that about 4 per cent of children have experienced online abuse, including being coerced into sexual activity or having explicit content shared without their consent.
According to the minister, families must play a key role in guiding children on the responsible use of digital technology while protecting them from online risks.
She encouraged parents to nurture children with spiritual and religious values so that they grow into upright individuals capable of contributing positively to the development of the nation.
Dr Gwajima added that the government continues to collaborate with stakeholders, including religious leaders and community institutions, to strengthen guidance systems that support families and promote ethical living in society
