State: We involve women in decision making

DAR ES SALAAM: THE government has reiterated its commitment to ensuring equal opportunities for all individuals in decision-making roles as it celebrates the accomplishments of women on a global scale.

Speaking during the commemoration of the International Day for Women in Diplomacy held in Dar es Salaam on Monday, Deputy Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Ambassador Said Mussa Shaib highlighted the long-standing, but often overlooked contributions of women in diplomacy.

“Women give representation of half of the world population, and therefore, also half of the potential.” he said. He added: “Women bring immense benefits to diplomacy; their leadership style, expertise, and priority broaden the scope of the issues under consideration and the equality”.

He said, for the first time, Tanzania joins the international community in observing the International Day for Women in Diplomacy, recognising and honoring women who have played pivotal roles in advancing diplomacy, multilateralism, and fostering peace, security and development worldwide.

Ambassador Shaib further acknowledged President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s exemplary leadership in Tanzania, noting her significant strides made towards gender equality and women’s empowerment in her visionary leadership.

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“We will all be witnesses to the fact that in more than three years of her leadership, President Samia translated her vision into concrete action,” he noted.

He mentioned key initiatives such as commitments to promoting economic progress, launching national gender equality policies, and advancing clean cooking energy solutions to empower women and improve public health.

While acknowledging Tanzania’s progress in promoting gender equality, Ambassador Shaib recognised the ongoing journey towards achieving full gender parity, emphasising the importance of sustained efforts and investments in women’s advancement in various sectors, including diplomacy.

He also commended the Minister of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation for championing initiatives to increase the participation and representation of women within the ministry through capacity-building programmes and monitoring mechanisms.

Expressing gratitude to development partners for their support in empowering women and fostering prosperity in Tanzania, Ambassador Shaib noted the collective responsibility in shaping a world, where gender equality and women’s empowerment are central pillars of diplomatic and developmental endeavors.

He also underscored the transformative impact of unlocking the untapped potential of women, driving inclusive development, and ensuring sustainable progress not only within Tanzania but also across the region and globe.

Through continued collaboration and dedication, he highlighted the potential to create a future where gender equality and women’s empowerment are fundamental cornerstones of diplomatic and developmental endeavors.

Detailing the Event, UN Women Country Deputy Representative Katherine Gifford said, on June 20th, 2022, the United Nations General Assembly officially adopted a resolution to commemorate the International Day of Women in Diplomacy on June 24th.

“This day acknowledges the invaluable contributions of women diplomats in fostering international cooperation, peace and security, and advancing sustainable development,” he said.

She said women have been playing a crucial role in global governance since the drafting and signing of the United Nations Charter in 1945, and bring immense benefits to diplomacy.