GPF Tanzania hosts workshop on preventing gender-based violence.
Global Peace Foundation (GPF) Tanzania marked the end of 2024 with impactful initiatives promoting peace, gender equality, and youth empowerment. Throughout December, GPF Tanzania implemented several key programs, including the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and the launch of the Daraja la Amani project, while also expanding its digital outreach through social media campaigns. Through the activities conducted in Mtwara and an extensive social media campaign, GPF Tanzania reinforced its commitment to fostering safe and inclusive communities.
Empowering Communities through GBV Education
As part of the 16 Days of Activism, GPF Tanzania organized educational sessions in Nanguruwe Ward and Shangani Secondary School to raise awareness about GBV. The 16 Days of Activism is an international campaign that runs from November 25 to December 10, advocating for the elimination of violence against women and girls. These sessions, held on December 4 and 6, engaged local leaders, students, and community members in discussions on the root causes of GBV, its impact on society, and the importance of gender equality.
At Nanguruwe, more than 400 community members participated in the event, which included speeches from government officials and social welfare officers. Farida Haule, a Social Welfare Officer, highlighted the economic challenges leading to GBV, emphasizing that when fathers abandon their families, women bear the brunt of hardship. Ward Executive Officer Mohamed Chikalangile called for greater female participation in decision-making processes to challenge long-standing gender inequalities.
The sessions at Shangani Secondary School, attended by over 400 students, focused on the distinction between gender and sex, traditional gender roles, and how harmful stereotypes contribute to violence. Diana Wezahula, a Social Welfare Officer, explained that GBV remains prevalent in southern Tanzania, particularly affecting youth, women, and marginalized groups. The police gender desk officer encouraged students to report any signs of GBV, reinforcing the message that violence is not just about gender but also discrimination based on race and ethnicity.
Sports and Community Engagement
The campaign incorporated community-driven activities such as football matches and tug-of-war games, which provided a platform for social engagement while spreading awareness. In a football match between Nanguruwe Veteran FC and Vijana FC, Veteran FC won 2-0, while in the women’s tug-of-war competition, the Younger Supporters team emerged victorious. These sporting events served as opportunities to discuss gender roles and promote inclusivity in social and economic spaces.
Daraja la Amani: A New Cross-Border Peace Initiative
On December 18, GPF Tanzania launched the Daraja la Amani project, a cross-border initiative funded by Search for Common Ground (SFCG). This project aims to promote peace, prevent violent extremism, and address GBV in the border regions of Tanzania and Mozambique. Civil society organizations, including TABUFO, Door of Hope, UNA, MSOAPO, Haki Rasilimali, and MULIKA, have joined forces to implement training and mentorship programs that strengthen women’s knowledge on GBV, establish early-warning response mechanisms, and conduct peacebuilding dialogues.
The launch event, held at Diamond Tiffany’s Hotel, was attended by high-ranking government officials, including Col. Michael Mitenjele, Tandahimba District Commissioner, who emphasized the critical role civil society organizations play in ending violence and fostering peace.
Digital Advocacy and Social Media Growth
GPF Tanzania also wrapped up 2024 with an impactful social media campaign in collaboration with UNA Tanzania. Under the hashtag #VijanaNaUchaguzi (Youth and Elections), the campaign focused on youth participation in democratic processes. The initiative, amplified by social media influencers, generated an impressive 11.9 million impressions and 3 million direct reaches. Additionally, GPF Tanzania representatives Irene Ishengoma and Evarist Kamwaga were featured on national TV broadcaster TBC1, discussing youth empowerment and economic opportunities, as well as GPF Tanzania’s ongoing projects, such as Familia Moja and Dumisha Amani.
The December 2024 programs highlight GPF Tanzania’s commitment to addressing pressing societal challenges through grassroots education, policy advocacy, and interfaith collaboration. By strengthening families, fostering youth leadership, and building a culture of service, these initiatives are paving the way for long-term peace and social transformation. With continued collaboration among government institutions, civil society organizations, and communities, GPF Tanzania remains committed to building cohesive, violence-free societies where all persons co-exist as One Family under God.
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