DAR ES SALAAM: AS the International Day of Women Human Rights Defenders unfolded within the ongoing 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign, a powerful chorus of voices convened in Dar es Salaam to honour the extraordinary efforts of women standing on the frontlines of justice and equality.
In the gathering infused with determination, collaboration and a call for justice, the Women Human Rights Defenders Day in Dar es Salaam brought together leaders, activists and allies to honour the efforts of those who stand unwaveringly for human rights.
With speeches by Deputy Minister Jumanne Sagin, Ms Helen Counihan of the Irish Embassy and UN Women Representative Hodan Addou, the event not only celebrated milestones but also shone a light on the path forward.
With the government perspective, the Deputy Minister for Constitution and Legal Affairs, Jumanne Sagin, opened the event with gratitude and acknowledgment of progress.
He highlighted the leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, whose policies have created an enabling environment for Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) to thrive in their human rights advocacy roles.
“Her leadership fosters a policy, legal and institutional framework conducive to promoting and protecting human rights,” he emphasised.
He underscored the shared mission between the government and NGOs: advancing democracy, peace and sustainable development while tackling civil, political and economic inequities.
Equally, he praised the Network for its accomplishments, including its pivotal role as the Secretariat for the East African Women Human Rights Defenders Network.
He also acknowledged the unique challenges faced by Women Human Rights Defenders (WHRDs), from harassment and discrimination to gender-based violence, urging the creation of safer operational spaces for these vital advocates.
The Network of Women Human Rights Defenders, celebrating five years since its establishment, was commended as a safe space and a vital platform.
The Deputy Minister highlighted the organisation’s remarkable achievement in being appointed as the Secretariat for the East African Women Human Rights Defenders Network. This milestone, he said, underscores Tanzania’s growing role on regional and global stages.
At the same time, he reflected on the unique challenges faced by women defenders, from harassment and discrimination to physical threats.
He praised their resilience, stating, “These women are the unsung heroes tackling real-life issues, often in the most challenging environments.”
Ireland’s commitment: Global solidarity, local impact
Presiding over, Ms Helen Counihan of the Irish Embassy emphasised the universal nature of gender-based violence (GBV), citing stark statistics: nearly one in three women worldwide and over half of Tanzanian women have experienced some form of GBV.
“This year’s theme ‘Rise, Move Forward, Speak Out’ is a rallying cry for unity against this scourge,” she said.
Ireland’s partnership with Tanzania has been robust, supporting initiatives that strengthen justice systems and address GBV prevention and response.
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Counihan highlighted collaborative efforts, such as a recent visit by Tanzania’s Chief Justice to Ireland, which aimed to foster cross-border judicial learning.
“The work of women human rights defenders extends beyond survivors,” she noted. “It considers the entire community, ensuring a holistic approach to justice and equality.”
Reaffirming Ireland’s support, she celebrated the coalition’s growth and called for continued collective efforts to achieve gender equality.
UN Women: A vision for equality
Hodan Addou of UN Women tied the event’s significance to the broader 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign.
Highlighting progress in Tanzania, Addou also issued a sobering reminder: violence against women remains one of the most pervasive human rights violations globally.
She referenced alarming statistics, including a UN report revealing that a woman dies from femicide every 10 minutes, with the highest rates in Africa.
“Violence against women is not inevitable,” Addou stressed. “Solutions exist early intervention, survivorcentred support and tackling discriminatory social norms are key.”
She lauded the efforts of women human rights defenders in advancing leadership, safeguarding rights and amplifying marginalised voices.
Yet, Addou warned of the gender-specific threats they face, underscoring the urgent need for protection mechanisms.
“When we protect women defenders, we safeguard the principles of justice and equality they champion,” she said.
Celebrating progress, tackling challenges The event highlighted the strides made over the past five years. The Tanzania Women Human Rights Defenders Network has empowered women to navigate legal systems, reduce harassment and advocate for gender-equitable laws.
Their work has extended beyond women and girls, promoting inclusion and fostering cooperation among all members of society.
However, challenges persist. From the systemic roots of GBV to ensuring sufficient resources for defenders, the speakers emphasised the need for sustained action.
“We must invest in autonomous women’s organisations and create spaces where defenders can operate without fear,” Addou urged.
As the world approaches the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration, the speeches served as a reminder of the enduring vision for gender equality and human rights. Sagin, Counihan and Addou each echoed a shared sentiment: progress requires unity.
To the women human rights defenders, Sagin delivered a heartfelt acknowledgment: “You carry the hopes of justice and equality for us all.” Counihan reinforced this with Ireland’s unwavering support, while Addou concluded with a rallying call: “You are the heart of our force for justice and dignity.”
As the event concluded, it left an indelible message: defending human rights is a collective endeavour and together, society can rise, move forward and speak out for a world founded on justice and equality.
