Policy Dialogue: strengthening women’s rights

Topic: Policy Dialogue

East Africa

Human Rights & Civ. Soc.

Gender Equality

Co-financing

Policy Dialogue

problem & solution

Even though Tanzanian regulations, laws and policies promote gender equality and human rights, inequality still persists in Muleba district. Discriminatory cultural and traditional beliefs and customs as well as limited access to information lead to a gender gap in leadership positions, economic resources and participation in decision making in all spheres of life.

The solution was

to raise awareness of regulations, laws and policies as well as of negative impacts of harmful traditions and customs
to improve access to affordable legal aid services by training paralegals and strengthening capacity of local dispute resolvers
to empower women and youth to generate their own income.

the experience

The project was kicked off with a launch event that informed stakeholders on its objectives and approaches. Thereafter different channels were used for awareness raising. To reach out to men, football leagues were organized. In addition selected community representatives were trained on laws promoting women rights and gender equality. Together with paralegals the trained representatives then provided legal aid services.

Moreover some women and women leaders received training on governance and leadership skills. Members of newly established community social groups were financially supported and equipped with knowledge on income generation. Furthermore round table discussions with decision makers were conducted and a referral system to people who could assist in women justice was established.

Challenges

increased number of reported disputes due to increased awareness including a relatively high number of men reporting
some husbands stop fulfilling their duties when women earn income, hence burden of taking care of the family falls on women

Impact

community members know where to report conflicts
women increased their financial independence from their husbands
less conflicts within families
women groups now support other vulnerable people

Lessons Learned

need for a good strategy on how to involve men
commitment of members of the target group to the action plan is crucial
continuous capacity building and awareness raising can change attitudes
at grassroots level paralegals are vital to dispute resolution