A colorful event in Tanzania brought together women’s groups, government leaders, guests and community members to celebrate International Women’s Day.
International Women’s Day is observed every March 8 to celebrate the achievements of women and defend their rights.
More than 3,000 Geita region residents took part in the global celebration held at the Kalangalala Grounds in Geita City. The event was hosted by Geita Regional Commissioner Martin Shigella and welcomed distinguished guests to the region.
Guests included Zanzibar’s leaders, including Zawadi Nassoor, Deputy Minister of Regional Development, Gender, Elderly and Children in the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar.
The guest of honor was Dorothy Gwajima, Minister of Regional Development, Women, Gender and Special Groups, who has over 20 years of experience in medicine, public health, social services and government administration leadership.
Elder Thierry Mutombo, a General Authority Seventy and president of the Africa Central Area of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, participated in the event on behalf of the Church.
In a news release from the church’s Africa Newsroom, Elder Mutombo said, “We are fortunate to have sisters in our church, and much of what we have accomplished in our church and family is due to their selfless service.”
Sister Judith Mina Spendi, organizational advisor for the Church’s Africa Central region, attended the event on behalf of the Church.
The celebration featured speeches, cultural performances and demonstrations aimed at recognizing the contributions of women to society and promoting gender equality.
Gwajima spoke at the event and praised the unity among women shown there, according to a news release. She encouraged women to join groups that improve their economic status.
“Such groups provide a platform where women can share their experiences, support each other and discuss the challenges they face while working together to improve their economic well-being,” she said. “They help strengthen economic independence and improve livelihoods.”
She also called on communities to promote the tradition of protecting children’s rights and welfare.
After speeches by other prominent figures who reflected on the progress made in women’s empowerment and the efforts still needed for equal opportunities, Ms. Shigella launched the PAMOJA project.
The PAMOJA project aims to advance gender equality in Tanzania by focusing on promoting women’s economic empowerment, preventing gender-based violence, and supporting early childhood development.
During the event, Sister Spendi emphasized the importance of the Relief Society organization and its role in enabling women to come together to support others.
“It was founded in 1842 to enable women to pool their resources and work together to serve and support those in their communities,” she said.
In accepting the invitation, Elder Mutombo detailed how Jesus Christ treated the women around him, especially Mary Magdalene, and the area president spoke of Christ’s deep respect for women.
“We can follow the example of Jesus Christ in showing kindness and respect to the women in our lives,” Elder Mutombo said.
