WiLDAF calls for coordinated action against gender-based violence
DAR ES SALAAM: THE Women in Law and Development in Africa (WiLDAF Tanzania) has called for strong and coordinated action to combat gender-based violence, particularly violence against women and children, emphasising that addressing the issue is a shared responsibility that requires collective effort and sustained support for survivors.
The call was made yesterday by the WiLDAF Tanzania Executive Director, Advocate Anna Kulaya, during an awards ceremony organized by WiLDAF Tanzania in partnership with the Gender-Based Violence Network (Mkuki) and other development stakeholders.
The event recognised and honored 16 outstanding champions for their commitment to combating gender-based violence and promoting human rights.
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Held in Dar es Salaam, the ceremony brought together government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, representatives from United Nations agencies, women’s rights activists, legal professionals, media practitioners, and civil society organizations.
Advocate Kulaya commended the positive shift taking place within communities, noting that many are no longer remaining silent in the face of gender-based violence.
“We are witnessing encouraging changes, with community leaders challenging harmful traditional practices and actively joining efforts to end gender-based violence. Awareness of legal and human rights has increased significantly. Today, more community members are breaking the silence, demanding justice, and calling for accountability,” she said.
She also praised the Government of Tanzania for its continued commitment to strengthening justice delivery mechanisms, including the expansion of gender desks and improved professionalism in the handling of cases and support for survivors of gender-based violence.
“We have seen meaningful progress in the justice system, particularly through the establishment of more gender desks and enhanced capacity of service providers to support survivors effectively,” she added.
During the event, Advocate Kulaya expressed sincere appreciation to development partners whose support made the awards ceremony possible, noting that their contributions are vital to advancing the rights of women and children. These partners include the Embassies of Switzerland, Finland, and Ireland, as well as UNFPA and UNICEF, among others.
