Women told to vie for leadership posts

ZANZIBAR: WOMEN in Zanzibar have been urged to actively contest for leadership positions in the upcoming elections to enhance their representation and protect their rights in decision-making bodies.

“It is an opportunity for women.

Do not be afraid to face men or fellow women in elections,” said Mr Mohammed Khatib Mohammed, Programme Manager at the Forum for African Women Educationalists (FAWE), during a sensitisation workshop aimed at encouraging women to participate in leadership roles.

The workshop, organised by FAWE-Zanzibar and held at Binguni School in Unguja Central District was focused on empowering women to contest in elections.

Dr Mohammed pointed out that many legal and patriarchal barriers have been reduced or removed, clearing the path for women to enter leadership roles.

Despite various efforts from the government, public institutions, and NGOs, Dr Mohammed noted that societal attitudes still hinder women from vying for leadership posts.

“We also blame obstacles such as norms, traditions, and poverty,” he said, urging women to be courageous and to not be discouraged by negative perceptions.

Ms Hasna Suleiman Rashid, also from FAWE, said the workshop’s goal was to inspire women to overcome misconceptions, acquire knowledge, and prepare for future elections.

She emphasised that women across the country should contest and support leaders who promote gender equality in economic, political, and social spheres.

Community leader (Sheha) of Binguni, Mr Ali Yussuf Mussa, echoed the encouragement, stating, “You have proved that you can lead, as most of the women in power are excelling.”

He encouraged women to increase their number in decision-making bodies by fully competing for leadership roles at various levels.

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Ms Rukia Ali Juma, who presented a paper on women and good leadership, highlighted that qualities such as honesty, courage, kindness, respect, and cooperation are essential for effective leadership.

The one-year project, implemented by FAWE Zanzibar in 16 administrative areas (Shehias) in Unguja South region, is supported by UN WOMEN and aims to engage at least 1,000 active women.