United Nations in Tanzania

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth’s environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. These are the goals the UN is working on in Tanzania:

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Publication

31 July 2023

Chasing Dreams, Creating Impact

Welcome to our coffee table book, a unique collection of human interest stories woven from the experiences of beneficiaries from the United Nations’ work in Tanzania. These stories, raw and powerful, serve as a testament to the transformative impact of our work and are an invitation to glimpse into the lives we touch every day. This book is categorized according to the five ‘Ps’ of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) – People, Prosperity, Planet, Peace, and Partnerships. These elements form the backbone of the United Nations’ approach to achieving a better and more sustainable future for all. Each chapter explores stories under one of these thematic areas, showcasing how our initiatives, developed and implemented in partnership with the Tanzanian Government and communities, have led to meaningful changes. As you turn the pages, you will meet individuals and communities who, with a helping hand from the UN and partners, have embraced challenges, turning them into opportunities, and are actively contributing to the broader vision of Tanzania’s development and the SDGs. This coffee book is not just about the UN’s work; it is a celebration of the strength and spirit of the Tanzanian people. It is a tribute to the communities that we serve, who are the heroes of these narratives, continually inspiring us to strive for a world that leaves no one behind. Welcome to their journey, and ours, towards a brighter, more equitable future.

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Story

26 November 2023

The peak of resilience against polio in Tanzania

A recent resurgence of polio virus was detected in one of the border regions; Rukwa region in Tanzania, following recorded cases of circulating Vaccine Derived Polio Virus (cVDPV) in some neighboring countries. The World Health organization supported the Government of Tanzania to swiftly launch an intensive polio vaccination campaign in 6 border regions including, Kigoma, Kagera, Katavi, Mbeya, Rukwa and Songwe, to break the chain of spread within the shortest possible time and ensure every child is protected. Health workers stood at the forefront of the response, crossing lakes, driving through valleys, climbing bridges to reach every child everywhere with vaccines. In the Kasanga town in Rukwa Region, a middle-aged town crier, Musah Alino is screaming through the town with a stick and a little container, hitting it passionately and calling on parents and families to come out and vaccinate “Oh people, oh people, the health workers are here, bring your children for polio vaccination”. 28-year-old Mgaza Augustino is also walking briskly to catch the next boat to the Samazi Village in the Rukwa Region, located across the Lake Tanganyika to vaccinate children. “We have walked over 10kilometeres per day. We have crossed the lakes, went down the valley and hills, gone to farms just to reach every child with polio vaccines, Mgaza Augustino narrated. “As much as this is tiresome, I don’t see this as an obstacle at all because we are aware of the sincere purpose of this work and the importance of the lives of our children.” Polio has no cure and can only be curbed through vaccination. However, In the heat of an outbreak, knowing how to respond is key to building resilience. The Government of Tanzania with support from WHO and partners mobilized and deployed over 5000 volunteer health workers into the regions to reach a target of 3 million children in 37 districts of the 6 regions. Thanks to the dedicated efforts and commitment from all, especially the volunteer health workers, the campaign exceeded its target, reaching over 4million children with a zero recorded case. “The aim was to reach as many children as possible. Thanks to support from WHO and partners, we have been able to reach people in hard-to-reach communities. There were places where some of the targeted children lived that were difficult for cars and motorcycles to plunge,” stated Kamota Richard, Sub District Vaccination Supervisor in Rukwa Region. Aside from the campaign, WHO expanded its support in polio eradication by extending environmental surveillance for polio, intensive community sensitization using multimedia outlet and door to door mechanism and conducted trainings for health workers to discharge their duties efficiently. “The most important thing was to break the chain in transmission. We needed to go everywhere, to vaccinate every child”, says Dr William Mwengee, Surveillance Officer at WHO. “We want to make sure every eligible child is not left out hence we supported the Government to make sure nowhere is left untouched”. More health workers plugged through several areas, churches, markets, and farms, to vaccinate children who may not be at home during the door-to-door visits. We spot one of the health workers, Neema Thomas Suedy, heading to a church on a hot blazing Sunday. “In this vaccination, I gave it my all because I want polio to be a thing of the past. I believe, all children must be vaccinated because they may get infected or perhaps if they already have it, they will infect others and their loss will be a great one to the community”.

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Story

26 November 2023

Overcoming cholera in Zanzibar

Stone Town ‒ It was the deaths of his two children from cholera that spurred Ali Hassan Mambo, a resident and community leader of Urowa, a suburb of Zanzibar in the United Republic of Tanzania, to commit to do everything possible to curb the deadly disease. “It was a terrible time for me, and I fell into a deep depression,” he says of the deaths of his 13-year-old son and nine-month-old baby. Zanzibar has experienced 17 recorded cholera outbreaks since 1978, recording more than 14 000 cases and more than 200 deaths. During the last outbreak, from 2015 to 2016, the government initiated a multisectoral response, incorporating all ministries.

The Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar invested in effective wastewater drainage systems and rolled out a comprehensive community sensitization programme on environmental sanitation and hygiene. Over 5000 hygiene kits and cholera information products were distributed to households, along with latrines and household cleaning equipment. The number of toilets in households increased from 59% in 2020, to over 70% by 2022. A continued education and social mobilization of communities in Unguja and Pemba was done through media, mobile vans, volunteers (Red Cross, ZAPHA+ and PIRO among others).

“Various ministries and partners helped us,” says Honorable Nassor Ahmed Mazrui, Zanzibar’s Minister of Heath, also commending World Health Organization (WHO) for strongly supporting the response to the most recent outbreak. We built infrastructure, cleared all blocked drainage systems, and increased the number of toilets in households. We commend World Health Organization (WHO); they stood firmly with us to eradicate cholera in Zanzibar.” Under WHO’s incident management system, the team supported key pillars of the response, including coordination, surveillance, case management, infection prevention and control, water, sanitation and hygiene, and risk communication and community engagement. Additionally, WHO supported the establishment of one of the 11 cholera treatment centers in Zanzibar to ensure a swift response to the outbreak.

The result is that, for the past five years, Zanzibar has not recorded a single cholera case. With support from WHO, the government also developed the Zanzibar Comprehensive Cholera Elimination Plan (ZACCEP), a multisectoral strategy to sustain the elimination of local transmission of cholera for a 10-year period, from 2018 to 2027.

Implementation of the plan saw the establishment of a strong surveillance system with the capacity to quickly detect any cases. After the 2016 outbreak, between 2017 and 2019, more than 155 health workers were trained to input cholera symptoms into the Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response system for quick verification and action.
Over 200 health care workers were also trained on how to minimize the spread of infections, using WHO’S water, sanitation, and hygiene guidelines. To ensure sustainable community sensitization, over 120 student water, sanitation and hygiene clubs have been established in five districts in Zanzibar, with sanitation and hygiene imbedded into broadcast media messaging. With funding from Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, and partners, WHO supported the administration of oral cholera vaccines to over 300 000 Zanzibarians between 2021 and 2022.
"Now, people are empowered and have an understanding of how cholera is caused and how to protect through hygiene, sanitation and taking care of themselves. The gains recorded so far will be sustainable because the government is taking the lead,” says Dr Andemichael Ghirmay Redae, WHO Tanzania’s Liaison Officer. According to Mambo, community members like himself are now equipped with the correct information about water, sanitation, and hygiene practices at household level, to share more broadly among their communities.
That gives him a deep sense of satisfaction. “Cholera is no longer here; the joy is immeasurable,” he says.

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Story

26 November 2023

What I learned from the Africa Climate Summit and the UN General Assembly, and what it means for Tanzania.

I want to take you on a journey through my experiences at the African Climate Summit and the UN General Assembly's Youth Mobilization Lab, which brought young people from around the world like me to build our capacity on how we can effectively advocate and engage decision-makers to act on climate change. These events have deepened my understanding of climate change and fuelled my determination to make a difference in Tanzania and beyond. Part one: African Climate Summit - A regional perspective Based on the experience I gained throughout my adolescence running different climate micro-projects in my community, I was selected as UNICEF Tanzania’s Youth Advocate for Climate Action. As part of my role as Youth Advocate. So, I was sent to the African Climate Summit hosted by the Government of Kenya and the African Union to do just that representing young people’s voices on climate issues. This regional event was a critical prelude to COP28 and emphasized Africa's commitment to climate resilience. Amplifying youth voices: At the summit, my role was clear: amplify the voices of children and youth in response to climate change. I advocated for equipping children and youth with the tools for climate adaptation and mitigation, including climate education, green skills development, and meaningful participation. Additionally, I spoke up about prioritizing climate financing for our generation and understanding that this investment is key to preventing the acceleration of the climate crisis. Enriching experiences: Learning opportunities: During the Africa Youth Climate Assembly, I learnt from the report ‘Time to Act: African Children in the Climate Change Spotlight,’ launched by UNICEF. It highlighted the unique exposure and vulnerability of African children to climate change. I also shared my insights as a panellist in several side events, organized by UNICEF and UNEP, with UNICEF Goodwill Ambassadors, technical specialists and other youth advocates. Networking opportunity: Meeting young individuals from diverse backgrounds expanded my understanding of the global climate crisis. I acquired crucial skills such as negotiation and critical thinking and had the privilege of being interviewed by various media outlets including Voice of Sahel Youth in Mali and Green Warriors TV in Kenya! Source of inspiration: Witnessing thousands of youth activists from around Africa gathered at the summit ignited a passionate drive within me to continue this important work. Part 2: UN General Assembly's Youth Mobilization Lab - A global perspective Next, I ventured to the UN General Assembly's Youth Mobilization Lab, a UNICEF platform for global youth advocates from 15 countries. This was an incredible space for personal and professional growth. Empowering youth globally: The Youth Mobilization Lab was more than just a meeting; it was an incubator of ideas, a forum for networking, and a catalyst for growth. It was so cool to have a week-long experience with fellow advocates where we had numerous learning opportunities, from advocacy workshops to media training, emphasizing practical tools for change. Truly an awesome experience! Collective knowledge: each advocate shared their unique journey and insights with each other, showcasing the power of collective knowledge. We stressed the importance of involving children and youth in climate negotiations - because the Earth belongs to us too! Global Insights: Visiting the United Nations exposed me to pressing global issues. I highlighted the need for collaboration between young people and leaders. Partnerships are essential for a resilient and sustainable world. Together, we're unstoppable! Turning inspiration into Action for Tanzania As I reflect on my remarkable journey, I recognize that the energy, creativity, and passion of young advocates are formidable forces. Climate change is a crisis of the present, and the insights and experiences gained at these events are a call to action. I call on everyone, everywhere, to recognize the urgency of the challenges we face. Let's engage with our communities, our leaders, and our world. Let's push for climate justice, sustainable practices, and the inclusion of youth in decision-making processes. Together, we can create a fairer future for Tanzania and the world. Remember, our voices are powerful tools that can shape a green and sustainable world. Let's join hands and make it happen!

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26 November 2023

United for a healthy future: Polio vaccination campaign to protect every child in Tanzania

A group of dedicated Community Health Workers walk through Rukwa’s red soil with one mission in mind: To go door-to-door and ensure that no child was left behind during the Polio vaccination drive. " Before administering polio vaccines to children, it's essential to educate parents about the importance of immunization,” said Therezia Kaminda, a Community Health Worker from the Rukwa Region of Tanzania. “Through awareness, we build trust, dispel myths, and ensure every child receives the protection they deserve." Therezia has been volunteering as a Community Health Worker for over five years and is filled with joy by the community's acceptance of vaccination. The Rukwa Region Polio vaccination campaign was in response to two confirmed cases of Polio. With generous support from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the Government of Tanzania in collaboration with UNICEF and WHO, launched the vaccination campaign reaching more than four million children nationwide in just four days. The campaign reached Rukwa and five surrounding regions: Katavi, Kagera, Kigoma, Mbeya, and Songwe. Pascal Mpondela, a father of three boys, highlighted the significance of having the correct information about vaccinations. "Our communities need to know more about these vaccinations because each drop brings us closer to eradicating polio in Tanzania," said Pascal while taking his last born to get vaccinated during this campaign. He also expressed his gratitude towards the healthcare workers for their extensive knowledge-sharing and commitment to ensuring that every child is vaccinated. "The healthcare workers are very dedicated. With every knock on the door, they make sure every child grows up happy and healthy." In this united front against Polio, Tanzania has exemplified the power of community. As the children of this nation receive their vaccinations, they not only gain immunity against a crippling disease but also inherit a legacy of unity and strength. Through these efforts, Tanzania paves the way for a future where every child has access to a healthier, brighter tomorrow. "Every child I immunize brings us a step closer to ending polio. I am proud to be part of this! It reminds me what impact a small act can have on an entire community," said Therezia with a smile on her face.

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26 November 2023

Empowering Youth for a Brighter Tomorrow: Smartcore's Revolutionary Approach to Secondary Education.

In today's rapidly evolving world, where knowledge and skills are paramount in shaping the future, Smartcore, an Investee of UNDP’s Funguo Innovation Programme, pioneering education technology and finance social enterprise, is committed to empowering the youth of Sub-Saharan Africa. Through its mission to democratize quality and relevant secondary education, Smartcore harnesses the power of technology, finance, and data to create an inclusive and innovative learning ecosystem. Not only does Smartcore revolutionize academic learning, but it also fosters broader youth development, nurturing well-rounded individuals equipped to conquer the challenges of the 21st century. Driven by a passion for positive change, Smartcore's mission goes beyond creating an impact in the lives of young learners. It extends to preparing the youth for life, empowering them to become informed, responsible, and compassionate global citizens. George AkiliMali, the Founder of Smartcore, emphasizes their commitment, stating, "Smartcore equips students with future-ready skills and critical thinking, empowering them to tackle real-world challenges and contribute actively to society. Our collaborative learning environment fosters teamwork, communication, and empathy, nurturing well-rounded individuals who embrace diversity and work effectively with others. We are committed to inclusive education, ensuring equal access to quality learning for all students, promoting social equity, and reducing educational disparities" George says. As Smartcore continues its transformative journey, it stands as a beacon of hope, driving positive change and shaping a brighter future for generations to come. With a revolutionary approach to education and an unwavering commitment to youth empowerment, it is sowing the seeds of progress, compassion, and inclusivity, leading the way to a better tomorrow.

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Press Release

06 September 2023

Norway Pledges Additional NOK 30 Million to Strengthen Food Security in Tanzania

This contribution comes at a critical juncture when the world is grappling with the ripple effects of geopolitical tensions, including the war in Ukraine. Recognizing the gravity of the circumstances people around the world are facing, Norway has swiftly committed a total of NOK 5 billion (approx. TZS 1.2 trillion) globally, underscoring its commitment to helping those affected. “Food security is a top priority for Norway. We want to support Tanzania and the rest of Africa in producing more food locally. Supporting small-scale farmers, women and investing in the food production value chain is key to make this happen. We want to increase food security in Tanzania on Tanzanian terms. I am pleased to reinforce our strategic partnership with the United Nations in Tanzania with this extra contribution” said Ms. Anne Beathe Tvinnereim, Norwegian Minister for International Development. She is currently in Tanzania participating in the Africa Food Systems Forum. “We are very grateful to the Government and people of Norway for this additional allocation which will go towards strengthening an important pillar of our work and ensuring that Tanzania continues to be food secure,” said Mr. Zlatan Milisic, UN Resident Coordinator in Tanzania. “Such contributions amplify the collective effort in ensuring no one is left behind, especially in these challenging times.” Norway’s contribution will strengthen the UN’s ability to ensure Tanzanians have access to safe and nutritious food in line with SDG 2 which aims to end hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition and promote sustainable agriculture by 2030. Note to Editors The Tanzania SDG Acceleration Fund is a joint initiative between the United Nations and the Government of Tanzania that aims to mobilize and direct pooled resources to high-impact and transformative results to accelerate SDG progress in Tanzania, with special efforts to ensure that no one is left behind. For more information, please contact: Karen Emilie Asla Adviser, Private Sector, Media & Communication Royal Norwegian Embassy Mobile: +255 754 328 645 Office: Norwegian Embassy, Dar es Salaam Website: www.norway.no/en/tanzania Facebook: Norway in TZ X: @NorAmbTZ Instagram: @norwayintz

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Press Release

01 August 2023

Ireland pledges Euro 3.85 million to advance Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Tanzania

The Embassy of Ireland and the United Nations in Tanzania are pleased to announce Ireland’s first contribution to the new Tanzania SDG Acceleration Fund of Euro 3.85 million (approx. TZS 10.47 billion). Launched earlier this year, the Tanzania SDG Acceleration Fund is a multi-partner funding mechanism set up by the UN Tanzania and the Government of Tanzania to support the implementation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) for the United Republic of Tanzania, 2022-2027. The Cooperation Framework is focused on reducing multidimensional poverty in Tanzania through transformative, greener, inclusive, and sustainable economic development, the advancement of the global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and national sustainable development priorities. The Irish contribution to the SDG Acceleration Fund in 2023 prioritises joint UN programmes and initiatives that cut across multiple UNSDCF areas and aims at promoting integrated solutions by different UN entities working in Tanzania. This will include strategic interventions ranging from support to small holder farmers, to improving health and nutrition at community level, to enhancing women’s engagement in policymaking. This grant is in line with Ireland’s commitment to supporting the global UN Development System Reform at the country level and aligns with the principles of the 2019 UN Funding Compact agreed between Member States and the United Nations[1]. Ireland has been active in Kigoma for three decades. I have seen the challenges its people face as well as their great tolerance and generosity. Ireland is committed to being part of building a resilient and prosperous future for Kigoma. Promoting gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls is at the core of everything we do,” stated the Ambassador of Ireland to Tanzania, H.E. Mary O’Neil. “We know from our own experiences in Ireland that excluding women causes suffering and holds back development. Unleashing women’s potential is vital for economic growth and sustainable development. Ireland is a firm supporter of the multilateral system. In Tanzania, the UN has an important role to play in connecting people and institutions to knowledge and resources. We look forward to working in partnership with the Government of Tanzania and the UN system to achieve the SDGs,” she added. “We express our gratitude to the Government and people of Ireland for this valuable contribution. Ireland has been a consistent partner of the UN in Tanzania over many years, and we are happy to now welcome Ireland to the new SDG Acceleration Fund. This move demonstrates the strong partnership between Ireland and the UN in Tanzania, and our joint commitment to helping Tanzania advance the SDGs with the focus on Leaving No One Behind, said the UN Resident Coordinator in Tanzania, Mr. Zlatan Milisic We also very much value our partners’ support to the UN reform. Ireland’s generous contribution puts us in a better position to deliver greater results across different areas of our work in a more coordinated and coherent manner. [1] For more info: https://open.un.org/resources/un-development-system-funding-compact

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Press Release

17 July 2023

US Congressional Delegation Conducts Learning Mission to Tanzania

The U.S. Congress members in the delegation were Sydney Kamlager-Dove, (California State Senate-37th), Nannete Barba Diaz Barragan (California's 44th congressional district Representative), Emilia Strong Sykes (Ohio Representative-13th), Edward Espenette Case, (Hawaii's 1st Congressional district) and Madeleine Dean (Pennsylvania's Representative 4th congressional district). The representative from the Eleanor Crook Foundation was Ms. Lesley Webet Mcnitt. During their visit, the delegation engaged with various stakeholders, including UN country team officials, government officials, NGOs, conservationists, and nutrition experts. Through these interactions, they gained an understanding of how the UN supports the Tanzanian government's efforts to address malnutrition and food security while also promoting sustainable natural resource management and conservation initiatives. An important part of the mission was at Tungamalenga Village in Idodi Ward, located in the Iringa Region in Southern Tanzania. At Tungamalenga, they witnessed firsthand the implementation of a UN-backed nutrition program that enjoys strong support from both local communities and the Tanzanian government.
The Iringa Regional Commissioner Halima Dendego welcomed the delegation at Tungamalenga and provided an overview of the nutrition challenges facing the region. Despite being among Tanzania's breadbasket regions, Iringa struggles with malnutrition and HIV/AIDS. The high-level delegation witnessed the Village Health and Nutrition Day where the joint UN Tanzania Nutrition Programme's impact in Tungamalenga, Idodi Ward was evident. Activities such as nutritional screenings, health education, cooking demonstrations, and agricultural interventions were observed. The delegation engaged with local community members, religious leaders, healthcare professionals, and program beneficiaries to gain insights into the successes and challenges faced while addressing malnutrition. The Acting United Nations Resident Coordinator and UNDP Country Representative Ms. Christine Musisi expressed her gratitude for their interest in Tanzania's development efforts. She stated, "We are so happy to have the delegation of the US Congress members and the UN Foundation with us in Tanzania to see and witness the work of the United Nations in the country. We appreciate the interest of the US Congress in choosing the work of the UN in Tanzania to be the important focus of their learning mission."
The Regional Commissioner highlighted the government's progress in reducing malnutrition rates under the leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan. She said, “The government has implemented a Nutrition Programme that employs a multisectoral approach, implemented through the Village Health and Nutrition Days (VHND) to address these issues.” The government's commitment to nutrition is evident in the alignment of these services with the Nutrition Compact Agreement between the President's Office, Regional Administration, and Local Government Authorities (PORALG) and the National Multi-sectoral Nutrition Action Plan (NMNAP). Data collection is also prioritized.
The Regional Commissioner noted that, “International cooperation plays a crucial role in addressing nutrition-related issues”. Hon. Halima invited the US Congress Delegates, UNF leaders and the representative from Eleanor Crook Foundation to invest in Iringa and support the government in conducting research to find out why malnutrition was still high in the region despite being a breadbasket region in Southern Tanzania. In Tanzania, the percentage of children under age 5 who are stunted (short for their age) has decreased steadily from 48% in the 1999 Tanzania Demographic Health Survey (TDHS) to 30% in the 2022 TDHS-MIS. However, malnutrition is still inadmissibly high in terms of absolute numbers probably due to population growth. Currently, more than three million children under the age of five years are stunted and with high geographical variations; for example, in the Iringa region stunting increased from 42% in 2015 to 57% in 2022 while in the Mtwara region, stunting declined from 38% in 2015 to 22.30%. These statistics reveal that malnutrition continues to be a significant issue in Tanzania, affecting children, and women, and contributing to non-communicable diseases. The Head of the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) in Tanzania, Ms. Nyabenyi TitoTipo, appreciated this visit by the US Congressional Team and elaborated, “the examples we have seen in the village today clearly manifests how the UN is jointly supporting the community, supporting the district and to see, how the community is engaged in trying to address nutrition from the health, food and Agricultural transformation aspect. The unity of the UN system, FAO, UNICEF, UNDP and the Resident Coordinator’s Office to bring the results we want for the people is much appreciated.” The Head of the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office, Ms. Shabnam Mallick, expressed her thanks to the support of the donors and development partners and also to the government of Tanzania. She explained, “UN agencies in Tanzania work in a coordinated fashion, to amplify a common voice addressing complex interconnected issues such as malnutrition. We are addressing existing gaps while utilizing minimal resources, and the best technical assistance offered by our skilled UN personnel.” The US Congressional delegation, led by Mr. Peter Yeo, Senior Vice President of the United Nations Foundation, expressed gratitude towards the Tanzanian government and the United Nations for their commitment to global health and development. Mr. Yeo emphasized that such engagements strengthen partnerships between Tanzania and the United States in addressing health challenges and in achieving Sustainable Development Goals. The US Congress members praised the innovative approach used in UN programs and acknowledged the joint effort between the UN and government to end severe malnutrition and improve food security, health, and biodiversity conservation. They encouraged replicating this approach in other areas facing similar challenges, acknowledging the vital contributions made by local communities and expressed intentions to support through their partners in the country. The U.S. Congress members also expressed that their learning mission to Tanzania demonstrates the importance of international cooperation and collaborative efforts in tackling pressing global challenges like malnutrition and sustainable development. They shared greetings from the American people and informed that as the delegation returns home to America, they carry with them valuable insights into the UN's work in Tanzania and an appreciation for the complex challenges facing the country's development efforts, promising to assist through the UN and USAID.
Earlier, the US Congressional delegation also received a briefing from the Ruaha National Park Chief Warden Mr. Godwell Men’gataki about conservation and biodiversity measures undertaken by the Tanzanian government in partnership with the United Nations. The delegation heard about UN’s support led by UNDP for anti-poaching efforts in the park. “UN supported the collaring and de-collaring for tracking elephants, provided equipment to improve infrastructure and vehicles for easy transportation within the camp and the equipment is still here today.” The UN also facilitated training and policy reforms to improve conservation efforts. Members of the US Congress, UNF Leaders and the Eleanor Crook representative all met community leaders participating in Tanzania’s Wildlife Management Areas Program supported by UNDP and the Global Environment Facility (GEF). The US Congressional delegation observed how climate change and human activity were impacting the Great Ruaha River and the wetlands.
In conclusion, Ms. Christine Musisi, The Acting UN Resident Representative and UNDP Representative in Tanzania expressed optimism that the learning mission would lead to stronger partnerships. “We believe that what they have seen in the country is good, it has been successful. They have seen our work in wildlife conservation, biodiversity conservation, and in nutrition. They have had hands-on experience with the communities which I believe has raised their understanding and their passion to really partner with the UN in Tanzania. I look forward to stronger partnerships to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals and the Third five-year Development Plan of Tanzania.”
*** About UN Tanzania: The United Nations System in Tanzania comprises 23 UN agencies, who work closely with the government and other stakeholders to implement the 2022-2027 United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) for Tanzania. The Strategic Framework outlines a coherent plan of action and enables a coordinated UN response to contribute more efficiently and effectively to achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the national development priorities/goals of the third National Five-Year Development Plan (FYDP III) and the 2021-2026 Zanzibar Development Plan (ZADEP). About UN Foundation:
The United Nations Foundation is a strategic partner of the United Nations. UN Foundation drives progress and tackles problems. UNF builds communities of support and nurtures initiatives to advance the dignity and well-being of people and the planet. It is headquartered in Washington, DC.
About US Congress:
The United States Congress is the legislature of the federal government of the United States. It is composed of a lower body, the House of Representatives, and an upper body, the Senate. The US Congress enacts laws that influence the daily lives of all Americans and is intended to serve as the voice of the people. Among the core values of the US Congress is pursuing continuous learning and growth of the organization and its human resources to provide the highest quality of service. About Eleanor Crook Foundation. The Eleanor Crook Foundation (ECF) was founded in 1997 with a single goal: to eradicate global malnutrition. ECF invests in research that proves what methods work, policy analysis to drive systems reform, and advocacy that makes the case for urgent action to address this global crisis. ECF is an active investor. In 2017, the Foundation pledged $100 million towards the elimination of global malnutrition. https://eleanorcrookfoundation.org/

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Press Release

09 March 2023

Joint message from the UN Resident Coordinator, UN Women Representative and UNFPA Representative on International Women’s Day

Women are underrepresented in innovation and technology-related fields worldwide, including Tanzania. According to the UNESCO Science Report (2021), only 33% of researchers worldwide are women. The gender gap in innovation and technology is particularly pronounced in certain fields. For example, women make up only 7% of inventors in the field of mechanical engineering, and only 12% of inventors in the field of electrical engineering. As we celebrate International Women's Day in Tanzania this year, the theme "Cracking the Code: Innovation for a gender-equal future" couldn't be more fitting. It reminds us that to achieve gender equality, we must think innovatively, creatively and find new solutions to old problems. We need to break the codes and negative social and gender norms that hold women back and continue building a world where everyone has equal opportunities to thrive. Innovation has always been a driving force in human progress. It has transformed the way we live, work, and interact with each other. It has brought us new technologies, ideas, and ways of viewing the world. But as we innovate, we must ensure we are not leaving anyone behind. Women and girls in Tanzania, particularly the most marginalized such as women and girls with disabilities, migrants, minorities, refugees, and those living in rural areas, continue to face barriers that limit their potential and hold them back from achieving their goals. From unequal pay for equal work to limited access to education, healthcare and participation, regional variations in Tanzania are profound; these barriers must be dismantled if we are to create a truly gender-equal future. One area where innovation can make a significant difference is in the workplace. Despite progress in recent years, women continue to be underrepresented in leadership positions and face a persistent gender pay gap. Multiple sectors in Tanzania have begun to embrace flexible working arrangements that allow women to balance work and family responsibilities more effectively. Expanding these opportunities through access to community-based care institutions, remote work, job sharing, and flexible hours provides benefits for all. By giving women more control over their work schedules, we can create a more equitable and inclusive workplace; when women thrive, everyone benefits. Innovation in healthcare in Tanzania continues to evolve. With improved access to quality sexual and reproductive health and rights, family planning continues to be an important healthcare service, with stagnant progress in unmet needs. While there are many methods potentially available, they are not equally available and may not meet the contraceptive and reproductive health needs of all persons. New methods and delivery systems, more thoughtful and patient-centered counselling, and rigorous assessment of outcomes can inform and improve the quality of care. Another area where innovation makes a significant difference is education. According to UNESCO, women in Tanzania represent 40 per cent of university enrollment, but only about 24 per cent are enrolled in science, engineering and technology fields. Girls continue to be underrepresented in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields and face stereotypes and biases that discourage them from pursuing these subjects. By promoting STEM education for girls and providing them with role models and mentors in these fields, we recognize the national universities in Tanzania enhancing opportunities for STEM education for women which helps to break down these barriers and create a more inclusive and diverse workforce. Innovation can also help to address the issue of gender-based violence, which affects women and girls worldwide, including in Tanzania. From sexual harassment to domestic violence, girls and women continue to face significant risks to their safety and well-being. By developing new technologies and tools to prevent and respond to violence against women through a survivor-centred approach with easy access to health, social welfare, police and justice, we can create a safer and more just society for everyone. We celebrate national successes in Tanzania in innovation toward a gender-equal future. At the national level, the 2022 Census, which for the first time used digital technology, will provide detailed gender-disaggregated data to inform policies and programming that support women and girls. At the local level, a small-scale project demonstrates promise: Digital Champions, provided with mobile phones, are empowered to trace and report GBV cases in their areas. We salute the many champions across Tanzania who recognize that human rights are women’s rights, and work toward the prevention of harmful practices in their communities and uphold gender equality. With strong female leadership in place in Tanzania, women in Tanzania express that they are claiming the space to move forward, networking and innovating towards gender equality. Ultimately, achieving a gender-equal future will require strong commitment to innovation and creativity. The recently published Demographic and Health Survey and Malaria 2022 Key Indicators demonstrate progress in maternal health, but the innovations that enable these advances must be scaled up and shared across the country to support Tanzania’s growing population. We must challenge our assumptions and think outside the box. By working together, we can create a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of gender. The United Nations in Tanzania, delivering as one, supports the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania to achieve our shared aim toward Sustainable Development Goal 5: Gender equality. So let us embrace the national theme of International Women's Day this year in Tanzania and crack the code to a more gender-equal future.

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