Tanzanian minister calls for official recognition of International Men’s Day

Bukombe. Minister for Community Development, Gender, Women and Special Groups, Dr Dorothy Gwajima, has called for the official recognition of International Men’s Day, observed annually on November 19, arguing that men’s role in family development and the fight against gender-based violence should be acknowledged at a national level.

Speaking at the International Women’s Day regional forum in Bukombe District, Geita, Dr Gwajima said recognising the day would encourage men to actively participate in discussions on gender equality, parenting, and family welfare.

“We cannot progress if men do not understand the concept of gender equality. As fathers, they must engage with their sons and daughters on these issues,” she said.

She noted that the 2023 Gender and Women’s Development Policy now includes men, recognising that women’s empowerment cannot be achieved without their involvement.

Dr Gwajima stressed that acknowledging International Men’s Day would contribute to reducing gender-based violence, as men would be part of the solution through discussions and awareness campaigns aimed at ending violence against women, children, and vulnerable groups.

During the forum, a representative of women from the Lake Zone, Salome Cherehani, praised the government’s efforts in establishing economic platforms to support citizens, particularly women, by providing access to interest-free and low-interest loans.

She said the mining sector has significantly contributed to women’s economic empowerment, allowing them to generate income and support the national economy.

However, she pointed out that many women in mining face challenges due to a lack of proper equipment, forcing them into partnerships with men and ultimately earning less.

“Infrastructure in the health sector has improved, but there is still a shortage of healthcare professionals, leading to preventable maternal and neonatal deaths,” she said.

Geita Regional Commissioner Martine Shigela revealed that local councils in Geita have so far allocated Sh1.5 billion to support 173 groups, including 63 women’s groups.

In the mining sector, 60 women’s groups have been issued licences, with Mr Shigela emphasising that women play a vital role in family economic growth, as they are the primary caregivers and educators in households.

Several women attending the forum backed the government’s move to recognise International Men’s Day, arguing that gender discussions must involve men to be effective.

“It is commendable that the government sees the importance of this. Men need their own platform to discuss issues that affect them so we can work together to eliminate gender-based violence,” said Jazaah Komba.

She urged the government to turn its commitment into action rather than leaving it as a mere discussion.