In a powerful call to action, the Zanzibar Minister for Social Development, Elders, Gender, and Children, Ms Riziki Pembe Juma, urged women's rights defenders and stakeholders to persist in their efforts to invest in women, removing barriers hindering their participation in social, political, and economic development. This appeal was made during the climax of the International Women's Day (IWD) celebration held at the entertainment ground in Kiungani village, Makunduchi, Unguja South Region.
Despite acknowledged successes, Ms. Juma highlighted the enduring challenges faced by a majority of women, including poverty, sexual violence, and harassment. These obstacles continue to impede their strides towards comprehensive social, political, and economic development.
"Invest in women to overcome the challenges. Empowering women is promoting the dignity and value of women in the community and the nation as a whole," emphasized Minister Juma.
Investing in women, as she pointed out, involves providing them with the necessary resources and opportunities to foster personal and economic growth, fulfillment, and empowerment.
Addressing the theme of International Women's Day 2024, 'Invest In Women: Accelerate Progress,' Ms. Juma underscored its alignment with the government's objectives of reinforcing gender equality and creating more opportunities for women to contribute significantly to the country's development.
The gathering provided a platform for Minister Juma to advocate for increased collaboration between law enforcement and community members, calling for additional measures to end or reduce abuse and economic discrimination against women.
"If we work together, we can make positive changes for all women, including making Zanzibar free from sexual violence," asserted Ms. Riziki, echoing the sentiments of Unguja South Region's Regional Administrative Secretary, Ms. Radhia Rashid Haroub, who detailed various efforts in progress to uplift women in the region.
Speaking on behalf of UN Women, the UN Area Coordinator in Zanzibar, Ms. Dorothy Temu-Usiri, emphasized the continued importance of International Women's Day. She highlighted its role in evaluating both successes and challenges faced by women, with a commitment to finding the right solutions.
Ms. Temu-Usiri pledged ongoing cooperation with the Zanzibar government, aiming to expand efforts to uplift women by removing legal and societal taboos. "We want to see gender equality in life on earth," she affirmed, expressing the shared vision for a more inclusive and empowered society.