RISING WOMAN 2025: How Anna embodies this year’s theme

Dar es Salaam. In a world where leadership is defined by influence, resilience and the ability to inspire others, Anna Mzinga stands as a trailblazer of development.

As the Country Director of WaterAid Tanzania, she embodies this year’s Rising Woman Theme “Accelerate Her Impact, We All Move Forward” not just in words but in action.

With over 20 years’ experience in strategic planning, finance and grants management, and 15 years in leadership, Anna has built a career rooted in integrity, transparency, accountability, and a commitment to sustainable development.

From leading complex financial strategies in both private and public/NGO organisations such as the Benjamin William Mkapa Foundation to championing inclusive WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) services at WaterAid, her leadership has shaped policies, strengthened institutions, and improved lives across Tanzania.

Under her leadership, WaterAid Tanzania launched a bold five-year strategy (2023-2028), with her spearheading its implementations from ensuring critical funding to be secured, enhancing collaboration with the government of Tanzania and forging partnerships that prioritise reaching everyone everywhere with sustainable and safe Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH).

Her influence extends beyond her organisation—she serves as a Financial Advisor for 6 years in UEM Organisation working in Europe, Asia and Africa, 10 years Board member for Maendeleo Bank, then last year, 2024, the Women with CPA in Governing Board (as Vice Chair) and then appointed by the Ministry of Health through the Minister to be the Board of Trustees at Muhimbili National Hospital.

All these positions allow for an opportunity for Anna to not only lead but, ensure that women’s voices are heard at those decision-making tables.

Anna understands the critical role of women in governance and decision-making and that is why this is one of the reasons she proudly serves on multiple boards.

She emphasises that organisations such as Maendeleo Bank, Muhimbili National Hospital and Global Development Institutions are shaping the lives of millions and the majority of those impacted are women and girls.

“Basically, all the organisations I am sitting in are serving the interest of big community when you talk about and look at the Bank and National Hospital or Development Organisation serving in Europe, Asia and Africa; all these organisations are serving the community. And from the data, most of the communities are women and girls and most of the decisions are made at the board level where the board is the organ that governs the organisation on behalf of the stakeholders.

“Sitting in such positions especially when you are a woman and wearing the lenses of a woman can really help you to influence decisions that work in favour of women and girls rather than against them. So, I feel very proud to be sitting into those boards but at the same time I know that as woman I also sitting there with the lenses representing other women who are vulnerable in other different areas.”

Academic Excellence and Financial Leadership Anna holds an MBA in Finance, is a Certified Public Accountant (CPAT), and has an Advanced Diploma in Accountancy.

With her extensive expertise, she has consistently contributed to improving financial systems, strengthening governance, and enhancing reporting mechanisms in various organisations.

Her solid background in finance, compliance, and resource management has played a crucial role in ensuring financial integrity, clean audit records, and strategic growth within WaterAid and beyond.

Notable Achievements and Recognitions Anna’s outstanding contributions to the WASH sector and women’s empowerment have earned her national recognition

Recognised as a Notable Woman in the Water Sector (2024) by the Ministry of Water, celebrating her leadership in driving sustainable and inclusive water, sanitation, and hygiene initiatives.

Honoured as an Inspiring Leader through Women with CPA in Tanzania, recognising her commitment to financial integrity, governance, supporting women and mentorship.

These accolades highlight her impact in shaping policies, mobilising resources, and advocating for women’s leadership within the WASH sector and beyond.

Inspiring the Next Generation: A Message to the Youth From a young age, Anna knew she wanted to pursue finance and leadership.

“Absolutely, I had always known finance was my passion. Since my O-Level studies, I was drawn to financial management, accountability, and transparency. But beyond numbers, I wanted to champion this career with integrity and the values that ensure sound resource management.

This commitment has shaped my path, allowing me to lead organisations that uphold financial excellence, receive clean audit reports, and achieve top ratings in grant management and strategic planning.”

Her journey serves as an inspiration for young people, especially those still discovering their career paths. She encourages them to identify their passions early, pursue them with dedication and remain committed to excellence and ethical leadership.

A Champion for Women’s Leadership Anna is a fierce advocate for gender equity and women’s leadership. She believes in creating opportunities for women to rise, actively mentoring, supporting,and encouraging women to step into leadership roles.

As the Chairperson of the Women’s Forum of WaterAid East Africa and a member of WaterAid’s Global Core Group for Gender, she is actively participating to ensure policies are redefined and programs are prioritising gender equality.

“I strongly resonate with this year’s theme, ‘Accelerate Her Impact, When She Rises and We All Move Forward.’ At WaterAid, gender is at the heart of our work because we understand that access to WASH services is deeply linked to women’s dignity, health and economic opportunities. In leadership spaces, I ensure that decisions are made with an understanding of the unique challenges under-represented women face —because when we uplift women, we uplift entire communities.”

Anna’s work is a direct reflection of the power of women’s leadership. She has made sure to lead WaterAid Tanzania into a high-performing organisation, even during challenging times such as the COVID-19 pandemic, where she led the team remotely while ensuring staff safety and program continuity.

Her leadership in developing and implementing WaterAid Tanzania’s five-year strategy (2023-2028) is a testament to her ability to drive change through strategic thinking, resilience and collaboration. Beyond her organisational impact, Anna is committed to financial empowerment for women.

She is currently writing a book on women encouraging them to hold onto their marriages another titled “Start from Where You Are”, guiding individuals on early savings, investments and personal finance strategies. But then on financial side, participating on speaking engagements on financial literacy ad empowerment while also sharing insights through her YouTube channel, where she educates people on financial independence and leadership.

A Legacy of Inspiration Anna believes that every woman has the potential to lead, but often, the barrier is self-doubt.

“Leadership goes hand in hand with courage. Believe in yourself before others do. Women often hesitate to step forward because we think we need to be fully prepared. But leadership is a learning journey—you don’t have to tick all the boxes. Take the opportunity, be willing to learn and step into positions you never imagined.”

Her message to women and youth everywhere is clear: Rise with courage. Embrace challenges. Step into leadership. When you rise, you take others with you.

As we celebrate women and their remarkable influence, Anna’s journey reminds us that when one woman rises, an entire community, an entire nation and an entire generation moves forward.