Latest
Speech
21 August 2024
Welcome Remarks by UNRCO Head of Office, Ms. Shabnam Mallick Capacity Development and Consultation Workshop on Public Service Management and Data Governance Framework Dodoma
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Speech
18 August 2024
Remarks by Head of UN Resident Coordinator’s Office, Ms. Shabnam Mallick | Summit of the Future CSOs Consultation | August 15th, 2024 | Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
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Speech
14 August 2024
Remarks by; Mr Michel Toto, UNESCO Country Representative, on behalf of the UNCT In the United Republic of Tanzania On the Occasion of International Youth Day
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Latest
The Sustainable Development Goals 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:
Publication
14 March 2024
Annual Results Report 2022-2023
The United Nations System in Tanzania comprises 23 UN agencies that work closely with the Government and other stakeholders to support the achievement of national development priorities and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The UN uses its comparative advantage to promote policy coherence, leverage partnerships, foster learning in development, and enable the provision of quality services for the poorest and most vulnerable.The results from this report are coordinated efforts by UN agencies, funds, and programmes across the four outcome areas of our UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) 2022-2027.As we progress into the second year of the UNSDCF’s implementation, we are encouraged to report that we largely achieve our objectives in all four areas. We sincerely thank the Government, development partners, implementing partners, and the communities we serve for their enduring partnership and invaluable contribution to our mission.
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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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Publication
26 April 2024
UN Tanzania Key Developments (January - March 2024)
We're delighted to present an overview of some achievements and initiatives supported by the UN from January to March 2024. These achievements result from coordinated efforts by UN agencies, funds, and programmes across the four outcome areas of our UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) 2022-2027.As we progress into the second year of the UNSDCF’s implementation, we are encouraged to report that we largely achieve our objectives in all four areas. We sincerely thank the Government, development partners, implementing partners, and the communities we serve for their enduring partnership and invaluable contribution to our mission.
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Publication
15 February 2023
Voices From the Field - KJP Special Edition
The programme builds upon the ongoing UN development interventions in the region. Through the KJP, the UN, therefore, continues to:
Implement an area-based cross-sectoral UN joint programme focused on addressing the root causes of poverty and human insecurity in all its dimensions to enhance the resilience and livelihood of communities living in Kigoma Region.
Apply a holistic durable approach to include both refugees, migrants in the region, host communities and host districts.
Implement the principles of the New Way of Working (NWOW) which encourages humanitarian and development agencies to work collaboratively based on their comparative advantages, towards ‘collective outcomes’ that reduce need, risk and vulnerability over multiple years.
Support the humanitarian-development nexus by linking together the UN’s existing response to refugees and migrants with an expanded development support to the host communities.
Support stability and prosperity in the Kigoma region, in turn, contributing to stability in the Great Lakes regional context.
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Publication
20 July 2022
United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) - Brief
The United Nations (UN) system, in collaboration with the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania (GURT), presents the 2022-2027 United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) for Tanzania. It 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 goals of the third National Five-Year Development Plan (FYDP III) and the 2021-2026 Zanzibar Development Plan (ZADEP). The framework also aims to contribute towards achieving Tanzania’s regional commitments and aspirations, including the East Africa Community Vision 2050 and the Africa Agenda 2063.
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Story
07 August 2024
Arm in Arm towards a more Inclusive Future: Stories from Yombo Vocational and Rehabilitation Centre for Youth with Disabilities
At UNFPA, our vision is to leave no one behind. We aim to create a world where everyone has access to sexual and reproductive health and rights, with particular emphasis on inclusivity. Yombo Vocational and Rehabilitation Centre for Youth with Disabilities (Yombo) in Tanzania stands as a leading example of this vision. The centre operates under the Prime Minister’s Office for Labor, Employment, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities in Tanzania.Yombo is a colourful oasis on the outskirts of Dar es Salaam, where sign language is spoken across the schoolyard, and students are considerate and adept at assisting each other. Two students, Amir and Lisa, walk arm in arm: Amir is ready to provide guidance if needed, while Lisa confidently uses her mobility cane as she queues for chai. Here, no one is left behind.Lisa explains how Yombo offered her a new opportunity to complete her education despite her visual impairment. Before Yombo, she had completed Form Four but was not allowed to continue her education, facing discrimination and bullying daily. For the students, Yombo is more than an educational institution; it is a safe space where they feel protected from the rejection and discrimination they face in their communities. Yombo fosters an inclusive environment where students make new friends, access rehabilitation programs, and receive educational, life skills, and vocational training. Lisa dreams of using her gardening skills in the agricultural sector. At Yombo, she learns to grow vegetables and plants, even with her mobility cane.Amir describes how Yombo helped him start his dream of becoming a businessman. He manages the chicken farm and has sold over 900 chickens during his time at the centre. Training in agriculture and livestock-keeping is one of the courses on the Yombo curriculum. Other courses include welding, tailoring, and masonry skills training. Vocational training empowers students, promoting independence and ensuring that persons with disabilities fully enjoy their rights and choices. Inclusion is at the heart of Yombo. The centre's health facility, part of UNFPA’s Safeguarding Young People program supported by the Embassy of Switzerland, provides medical equipment supplies and a refurbished waiting lounge. This facility shelters students and the community from the baking sun while they wait for health services. The health centre's proximity has ensured timely and appropriate medical care for the students and serves the Kiwalani and Minazi Mirefu wards, with a catchment area population of about 16,000.Yombo is a step towards a more inclusive future. Just like Amir and Lisa, walking arm in arm, let's continue to take these steps together, leaving no one behind.About Safeguard Young PeopleSafeguard Young People (SYP) is a regional flagship youth program that started in 2013, focusing on Southern African countries. The program expanded to Eastern African countries, including Tanzania, Rwanda, Mozambique, and Angola, in 2021. Its goal is to improve the health and well-being of adolescents and young people aged 10-24 years, with an emphasis on sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) and gender equality. The program complements UNFPA’s existing work on improving SRHR for young people and is implemented in five selected regions in Tanzania Mainland and Zanzibar. The program has a governance and management architecture agreed upon with the Swiss Development Cooperation (SDC) through the Embassy of Switzerland in Tanzania, co-funding this program with UNFPA. At the national level, the program focuses on creating a conducive political, legal, and policy environment and developing capacity for Adolescent Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights and Youth Participation. It also supports effective coordination and partnerships in Tanzania Mainland and Zanzibar. At regional and district levels, interventions strengthen institutions' capacity to deliver quality Comprehensive Sexuality Education/Life Skills and Social Behavior Change Communication for in-school and out-of-school young people. The program also supports scaling up integrated youth-friendly service provision in selected regions.
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Story
10 August 2024
Illuminating Minds: Solar Bags Bring Reading to Children in the Dark
According to UNESCO, the primary school net enrolment rate in Tanzania was 83.5% in 2018. This means that almost 20% of primary school-aged children in the country were not enrolled in school. Concurrently, the World Bank reported that only 22% of Tanzania's population had access to electricity in 2019. This lack of access to electricity can be a significant barrier to education and economic development.In Tanzania, many children’s accesses to education are hindered by poverty, lack of access to schools, and a lack of resources like books and electricity. However, one man's determination to make a difference has led to the birth of an innovative solution that is changing the lives of many children in the country.Innocent Joseph is the founder of Somabags, a start-up based in Mwanza that creates solar bags from used cement bags. These bags allow children to charge the solar during the day and use the light to read at night. The idea behind Somabags came from Joseph's passion for education and his observation of the challenges faced by children in accessing education. His initiative is further supported by the UNDP’s Funguo Innovation Programme, funded by the European Union (EU) and the UK Government, highlighting collaborative efforts to promote sustainable solutions and educational opportunities in underserved communities.Innocent's journey began with a book cart that he used to roam around with and read to children both in school and out of school. However, he soon realized that the children were not reading the books because their homes had no electricity. This prompted him to think of a solution that would allow children to read at night without electricity. Somabags are made from used cement bags that are collected from construction sites. These bags are then cleaned, cut, and sewn by a team of local women who work for Somabags. The bags are then fitted with a solar panel that allows the bags to charge during the day. The solar panel is also fitted with a USB port that allows children to charge their phones, providing them with access to communication and information.The impact of Somabags has been tremendous. The bags have provided children with a reliable source of light that allows them to read at night. This has led to an improvement in academic performance as children are now able to study more effectively. The bags have also provided children with access to information and communication, allowing them to keep in touch with their families and friends.One can also confidently say that Somabags has become a solution that has changed the lives of many as currently, Somabags has over 85 employed personnel, a production capacity of 6,000 bags per month but a soaring demand of 13,500 bags. The company generates revenue through bag sales and exclusive brand partnerships while significantly contributing to environmental conservation by repurposing up to 200,000 packing sacks monthly, preventing them from becoming street litter. Additionally, SomaBags has diversified its product portfolio by including leather-incorporated safari bags mainly meant for both export markets.Soma bags and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Soma bags can contribute to several SDGs. For example, providing children with access to education through the use of solar bags can contribute to SDG 4 (Quality Education). Similarly, by creating job opportunities for women in Mwanza, Soma bags can contribute to SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth). Additionally, by using recycled materials to create their bags, Soma bags can contribute to SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). Overall, Soma bags is an excellent example of how innovation and entrepreneurship can be used to achieve multiple SDGs simultaneously.
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Story
10 August 2024
Empowering Coastal Communities: Transformative Solutions for Sustainable Fishing Practices.
In the remote village of Tandika, nestled within the Dunda ward in Bagamoyo Region, Anjela Jonas Mzirai is leading a transformative small fish business. With a determined spirit and community support, she has embraced opportunities provided by UNDP, the Government of Tanzania, and Japan to venture into the business of drying fish, particularly sardines.Anjela's journey began with the provision of 10 fish drying racks from UNDP Tanzania with support from the Government of Japan through the Tackling Illegal Maritime Initiative. These racks have revolutionised sardine preservation and empowered the community economically. Anjela's initiative to share these benefits with fellow villagers has further boosted sustainable practices, fostering collective ownership and collaboration within the community. "We used to struggle during the rainy season," Anjela explains. "Drying fish on the ground took forever and risked contamination. Now, with these fish drying racks, we can efficiently dry our fish, ensure quality, and increase income. The availability of clean and efficiently dried fish has attracted people from Dodoma, Dar Es Salaam, and beyond."The impact of this initiative echoes beyond Anjela's household. The increased income from her business has enabled her group of seven women to invest in essential fishing tools, support their families, and pay for their children's education. “With our newfound financial stability, we are now eyeing further expansion into seaweed cultivation,” says Anjela.
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Story
10 August 2024
Pioneering Tanzania's Blue Economy with Sustainable Innovation
Tanzania's rich coastline offers vast potential in the seaweed economy, and Healthy Seaweed Co. Ltd is leading the way. As an investee under UNDP’s FUNGUO Innovation Programme with support from EU and UK Government, the company is not only innovating but also contributing to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).Embracing the blue economy concept endorsed by the United Nations, which promotes the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and environmental conservation, Healthy Seaweed Co. Ltd is a key player in Tanzania's seaweed industry. With the support from the FUNGUO program, the company thrives sustainably, tapping into the vast potential of this marine resource while ensuring sustainable practices.Healthy Seaweed Co. Ltd's initiative aligns with several SDGs, particularly SDG 14 (Life Below Water), by promoting the conservation and sustainable use of marine resources. Their responsible seaweed farming practices address environmental concerns and support marine ecosystem longevity.Additionally, the company contributes to SDG 1 (No Poverty) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) by creating economic opportunities for coastal communities. Training programs, employment opportunities, and fair trade practices empower local residents and help alleviate.The company continuously explores innovative and eco-friendly seaweed farming techniques, minimizing environmental impact while demonstrating how businesses can thrive and safeguard marine ecosystems.Healthy Seaweed Co. Ltd exemplifies how aligning business goals with sustainable development can drive positive change. Through the UNDP FUNGUO program and commitment to the blue economy, the company advances its interests and contributes significantly to Tanzania's development goals. As it continues to flourish, the company showcases the potential for responsible business practices to create a more sustainable and prosperous future.
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Story
10 July 2024
Engaging Youth, Envisioning Futures: Youth Impact Global and National Agendas
Engaging Youth, Envisioning Futures: Youth Impact Global and National AgendasOver 200 young Tanzanians recently convened in Dar es Salaam for a two-day national youth consultation, preparing for the upcoming Summit of the Future and deliberating on the Tanzania Development Vision (TDV) 2050. Organized by the United Nations in partnership with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, and the Planning Commission of the President’s Office, the event was a vibrant platform for youth engagement in global and national development agendas.The Summit of the Future, set for September 22-23, 2024, in New York, aims to rejuvenate global cooperation and advance sustainable development through inclusive engagement and future-oriented governance. As Tanzania gears up for this significant event, the national youth consultation served as a crucial preparatory step, ensuring that the voices of young Tanzanians are heard on the global stage.Ambassador Noel Kaganda, Director of Multilateral Cooperation, emphasized the Government’s commitment to youth empowerment, stating, “Both the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania and the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar have enacted youth development policies & established special ministerial dockets to deal with youth affairs.” This commitment underscores the integral role of youth in shaping policy and driving social change.Reflecting on the importance of giving young people a platform to be heard, UNFPA Country Representative, Mr. Mark Bryan Schreiner, speaking on behalf of the UN Resident Coordinator in Tanzania, highlighted the strategic importance of the youth’s contributions. “This gathering is a testament to your crucial role in shaping both the Summit of the Future and the TDV 2050. Your insights and aspirations will drive our nation forward, ensuring that the policies we craft and the initiatives we undertake resonate with your experiences, challenges, aspirations, and vision for the future.”Under the leadership of the Planning Commission and the United Nations Association (UNA), participants engaged in group work to articulate views, challenges, and recommendations for the TDV 2050. The TDV 2050, is currently being formulated and will be the nation’s development roadmap for decades to come, aiming to transform Tanzania into a more prosperous and sustainable society. “I encourage each of you to channel the discussions and learnings from global themes into our national context. Your fresh perspectives are crucial as we aim to integrate these global insights with our local realities, crafting policies and strategies that are both innovative and inclusive,” emphasized the Head of the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office in Tanzania, Ms. Shabnam Mallick.By bridging global dialogues with national development planning, the event contributed towards empowering young Tanzanians to take an active role in shaping their country’s future. The inputs collected are set to be submitted to the national writing team currently drafting the TDV 2050, contributing towards a blueprint for Tanzania’s future that is both robust and reflective of its youthful populace’s ambitions. They will also inform the participation of Tanzania’s delegation that will be participating in the Summit of the Future later this year.The consultation exemplified Tanzania’s proactive approach to incorporating youth in governance and policy-making, aligning with the global objective of the Summit to foster effective cooperation for addressing contemporary challenges. As Tanzania continues to advocate for inclusive and sustainable development, the insights from its youth will contribute to more resilient and responsive governance, both locally and globally.
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Press Release
28 May 2024
UN Headquarters Observes International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers on 30 May
UN Headquarters will observe the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers on Thursday, 30 May 2024. In 1948, the historic decision was made to deploy military observers to the Middle East to supervise the implementation of Israel-Arab Armistice Agreements, in what became the United Nations Truce Supervision Organization. Since that time, more than two million peacekeepers from 125 countries have since served in 71 operations around the world. Today, some 76,000 women and men are serving in 11 conflict zones across Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.Tanzania is the 11th largest contributor of uniformed personnel to UN Peacekeeping. It currently deploys more than 1,500 military and police personnel to the UN peacekeeping operations in the Abyei, the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Lebanon, and South Sudan.During formal ceremonies at United Nations Headquarters, Secretary-General, António Guterres, will lay a wreath to honour all UN peacekeepers who have lost their lives since 1948. He will also preside over a ceremony in the Trusteeship Council Chamber, at which Dag Hammarskjöld Medals will be awarded posthumously to 64 military, police, and civilian peacekeepers, who lost their lives serving under the UN flag, including 61 who perished last year.Among the peacekeepers to be honoured posthumously with the Dag Hammarskjold medal are three from Tanzania: SSGT Justine Simwilwa EZEBIUS who served with the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA); LT John Anthony MAGOIGA who was deployed with the UN Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO); and Mr. Tasokwa CHIUME who served in a civilian capacity with the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).The Secretary-General will also present the 2023 Military Gender Advocate of the Year Award to Major Radhika Sen, a military officer from India, who served with the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO). Created in 2016, the Award “recognizes the dedication and effort of an individual peacekeeper in promoting the principles of UN Security Council resolution 1325 (2000) on women, peace and security”.In his message, the Secretary-General said: “Today we pay tribute to the more than 76,000 United Nations peacekeepers who embody humanity’s highest ideal: peace. Day in and day out, at great personal risk, these women and men bravely work in some of the most dangerous and unstable places on earth to protect civilians, uphold human rights, support elections and strengthen institutions. More than 4,300 peacekeepers have paid the ultimate price while serving under the UN flag. We will never forget them.”The theme for 2024 International Day of UN Peacekeepers is “Fit for the future, building better together.” The theme denotes that while UN Peacekeeping has proven to be part of the solution for over 75 years -- assisting host countries in navigating the difficult path from conflict to peace -- the Secretary-General’s New Agenda for Peace policy brief sets out a path for multilateral peace and security operations to remain viable tools to address future crises and conflict.“UN Peacekeeping remains a unique global partnership, with peacekeepers from over 120 countries making a meaningful difference every day to millions of people in some of the most world's most difficult places,” said Jean-Pierre Lacroix, Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations. "As we respond to tomorrow's challenges, UN Peacekeeping continues to evolve, leveraging partnerships to be nimble, responsive and fit-for-purpose, promote stability, protect the vulnerable and help to build a durable peace.”The International Day of UN Peacekeepers was established by the UN General Assembly in 2002, to pay tribute to all men and women serving in peacekeeping, and to honour the memory of those who have lost their lives in the cause of peace. # # # # #Media Contacts: Douglas Coffman, Department of Global Communications -+1 (917) 361-9923, e-mail: coffmand@un.org; or Hector Calderon, hector.calderon@un.org or Aditya Mehta, mehta2@un.org from the Department of Peace Operations .For more information, please visit the Peacekeepers Day websites here: https://www.un.org/en/observances/peacekeepers-day; or https://peacekeeping.un.org/en/international-day-of-un-peacekeepers-2024-0 * * * * *
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Press Release
12 February 2024
Japan and UNHCR sign $360,000 agreement for emergency assistance for Congolese new arrivals in Tanzania
“While Japan, together with UNHCR, will make efforts to support Tanzania, I sincerely hope that the government of Tanzania will also continue playing an important role to provide protection as well as the necessary care to refugees in accordance with international humanitarian laws. By working together, we can make a tangible impact on the lives of refugees, ensuring a brighter and more secure future,” said H.E Mr. Yasushi Misawa, Ambassador of Japan to Tanzania.
In 2023, UNHCR and its national and international partners supported the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania to receive over 14,400 new arrivals in Kigoma region who were provided with a safe place to sleep, food, water, and other life-saving assistance. Often refugees and forcibly displaced people who flee arrive with little more than the clothes they are wearing and the few belongings they can carry in their arms. Access to shelter, water, sanitation facilities, and essential items for hygiene promotion becomes vital to reducing mortality and morbidity, and enhancing new arrivals’ protection, dignity, and quality of life.
“Last year, I was in Kigoma and in Nyarugusu refugee camp where I spoke to men, women, and children who fled from the DRC. They were people like you and me, desperate, crying for their dead and missing family, friends, and neighbours. The very timely contribution from Japan will allow us to help refugees live dignified lives in displacement,” said Ms. Mahoua Parums, UNHCR’s Representative in Tanzania.
UNHCR requires USD 8 million to respond to the DRC emergency in Tanzania and appeals for more humanitarian and international community support as needs persist. As of 31 December 2023, Tanzania hosts over 240,000 refugees, mainly from Burundi and the DRC. UNHCR remains deeply grateful for the people and Government of the United Republic of Tanzania who have set a global example in welcoming refugees. Continued solidarity with both the refugees and the host communities is vital. END
In 2023, UNHCR and its national and international partners supported the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania to receive over 14,400 new arrivals in Kigoma region who were provided with a safe place to sleep, food, water, and other life-saving assistance. Often refugees and forcibly displaced people who flee arrive with little more than the clothes they are wearing and the few belongings they can carry in their arms. Access to shelter, water, sanitation facilities, and essential items for hygiene promotion becomes vital to reducing mortality and morbidity, and enhancing new arrivals’ protection, dignity, and quality of life.
“Last year, I was in Kigoma and in Nyarugusu refugee camp where I spoke to men, women, and children who fled from the DRC. They were people like you and me, desperate, crying for their dead and missing family, friends, and neighbours. The very timely contribution from Japan will allow us to help refugees live dignified lives in displacement,” said Ms. Mahoua Parums, UNHCR’s Representative in Tanzania.
UNHCR requires USD 8 million to respond to the DRC emergency in Tanzania and appeals for more humanitarian and international community support as needs persist. As of 31 December 2023, Tanzania hosts over 240,000 refugees, mainly from Burundi and the DRC. UNHCR remains deeply grateful for the people and Government of the United Republic of Tanzania who have set a global example in welcoming refugees. Continued solidarity with both the refugees and the host communities is vital. END
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Press Release
09 February 2024
Her Voice, Her Future: Investing in survivor-led movements to end female genital mutilation
Her mother, enlightened about the devastating impacts of this ritual, supported her decision, but they faced staunch opposition from their family, who believed in adhering to a tradition that promised social acceptance at the cost of physical and emotional trauma. Ghati's story is a common story often told—countless young girls with their basic human rights violated.
FGM inflicts irreversible harm on girls and women, with grave consequences on the lives of countless young girls. FGM is not just a cultural ritual; it jeopardizes the health and well-being of girls, affecting their education, derailing their career prospects, and echoing the deep-seated gender inequalities embedded in our societies.
On this International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM, we acknowledge the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania's progress in reducing FGM prevalence from one in seven girls in 2010 to one in twelve girls in 2022. However, with uneven regional progress in the country and a looming deadline to meet the Sustainable Development Goals, our fight against FGM requires an intensified, multi-faceted approach to meet our national target.
Over a decade of action through global, regional, and national programmes has provided us with strong evidence, and the what, the why - and our direction is clear. Efforts to eradicate FGM in Tanzania require a combination of legal measures, improved access to accessible, culturally sensitive services, including the prevention of medicalization for girls at risk and support services to FGM survivors provided by skilled professionals, awareness campaigns, education, community engagement, and empowerment of women and girls to raise their voices and claim their rights.
Empowered voices go further – and longer. We must remain steadfast in our refusal to give up the fight for every woman and girl to enjoy their right to bodily autonomy and good health. The heart of these efforts lies in empowering the girl child, ensuring her voice is heard through educational programs, life skills training, and entrepreneurship opportunities and supporting alternative rites of passage that celebrate the transition of a girl child into womanhood but do not involve genital mutilation.
Awareness campaigns should be intensified, using culturally sensitive methods to reach the hearts and minds of those who may be perpetuating or supporting this practice. Religious and community leaders and men and boys as fathers, brothers, decision-makers, and custodians of culture hold considerable influence; their commitment to condemning and actively discouraging FGM is crucial. On the other hand, partnering with women-led and FGM survivor-led organizations, especially at the grassroots level, who have an in-depth understanding of the challenges that women and girls face, are key to promoting social and gender transformation and vital resources on how to advance their rights. By fostering collective and open dialogue, community leaders and members can challenge traditional beliefs that have sustained this harmful practice for generations.
The fight against FGM is not just a moral imperative but a necessary step toward achieving gender equality and empowering future generations of Tanzanian women. Tanzania must lead the charge in eradicating FGM, setting an example for the region and the world. To achieve our goal of zero FGM cases by 2030, we must unite our voices as players in our movement, including governments, policymakers, development partners, academia, national and international organizations, grassroots, advocates, media and beyond. Only through collective will and action can we break free from the shackles of tradition and forge a path towards a more equitable and compassionate society, securing the human rights and dignity of its female citizens once and for all.
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Press Release
05 January 2024
UNHCR staff climb Africa’s highest mountain in support of refugee children in Tanzania
With the raised funds, 10 schools will receive much-needed lightning arrestors and protect refugee children from catastrophic lightning incidents. Heavier than normal rains and thunderstorms have led to fatal lightning incidents in Tanzania, particularly impacting refugees. In just one month alone in 2023, lightning hit a school in the Nduta refugee camp and instantly killed five children while injuring another 15 children. A nine-month-old refugee baby had to undergo lifesaving treatment after being similarly struck in a separate incident, while another refugee child was left with multiple burns most recently in December.
“When the fundraising idea came up it was about us climbers highlighting the needs of the refugees in Tanzania figuratively from the highest point possible and translating the adventure and toil of the climb to mobilizing resources for those that UNHCR serves, especially children,” explained Murithi M’nkubitu, one of the climbers.
Despite the beautiful views of the mountain, the UNHCR team was constantly reminded of the reality of many refugee camps and the areas they live in. For Damla Balaban, also part of the climbing team, this was crucial in motivating them throughout their journey. “It was dark, cold, and we were sleepless and hungry. The climb to the top was physically challenging, but I didn’t have any room to doubt if I was able to do it or not, I had to do it. There was no option for stopping, because we were climbing to fundraise for refugee children to be safe,” said Damla.
“Thinking about those refugee children who are affected by the lightning has motivated me to keep on going, keep on moving, and never give up. The climb to the top of Mt. Kilimanjaro was especially challenging for me – while going higher and higher, oxygen was decreasing, and I had difficulty in breathing,” added Yajun Hu.
Climate change continues to impact both displaced populations and the communities that are hosting them. In recent decades, the Kigoma region in northwestern Tanzania and where the two main refugee camps are located– has grappled with severe weather events such as heat waves, floods, and storms.
Out of a total of 56 schools in the refugee camps in Tanzania, 46 do not have lightning arrestors. The fear of encountering further lightning incidents is a daunting reality for many refugees and asylum seekers as the Tanzania Meteorological Authority has predicted more heavy rains and storms in the coming months. It costs just USD 1,700 to install one lightning arrestor in a school, which can save the lives of around 1,500 refugee children.
“We need to move with speed on the installation of lightning arrestors to safeguard the lives of the people we serve. Having the lightning arrestors will mitigate the risks of death of refugees, especially children, which is an avoidable tragedy if we act now,” said George Kuchio, UNHCR’s Deputy Representative for Protection in Tanzania. Tanzania currently hosts over 240,000 refugees, mainly from Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo, more than half of them being children.
As of 15 December 2023, UNHCR had received only 37 per cent of the resources needed to assist and protect refugees in the country. UNHCR appeals to the international community to support the refugee response, especially to raise funds for lightning arrestors in refugee schools. One refugee child dead from a lightning strike at a school, is one too many.
END You can donate to the initiative by clicking here.
For additional information:
In Dar es Salaam, Bahia Egeh, egehb@unhcr.org, +255 765 168 179
In Nairobi, Faith Kasina, kasina@unhcr.org, +254 113 427 094
“When the fundraising idea came up it was about us climbers highlighting the needs of the refugees in Tanzania figuratively from the highest point possible and translating the adventure and toil of the climb to mobilizing resources for those that UNHCR serves, especially children,” explained Murithi M’nkubitu, one of the climbers.
Despite the beautiful views of the mountain, the UNHCR team was constantly reminded of the reality of many refugee camps and the areas they live in. For Damla Balaban, also part of the climbing team, this was crucial in motivating them throughout their journey. “It was dark, cold, and we were sleepless and hungry. The climb to the top was physically challenging, but I didn’t have any room to doubt if I was able to do it or not, I had to do it. There was no option for stopping, because we were climbing to fundraise for refugee children to be safe,” said Damla.
“Thinking about those refugee children who are affected by the lightning has motivated me to keep on going, keep on moving, and never give up. The climb to the top of Mt. Kilimanjaro was especially challenging for me – while going higher and higher, oxygen was decreasing, and I had difficulty in breathing,” added Yajun Hu.
Climate change continues to impact both displaced populations and the communities that are hosting them. In recent decades, the Kigoma region in northwestern Tanzania and where the two main refugee camps are located– has grappled with severe weather events such as heat waves, floods, and storms.
Out of a total of 56 schools in the refugee camps in Tanzania, 46 do not have lightning arrestors. The fear of encountering further lightning incidents is a daunting reality for many refugees and asylum seekers as the Tanzania Meteorological Authority has predicted more heavy rains and storms in the coming months. It costs just USD 1,700 to install one lightning arrestor in a school, which can save the lives of around 1,500 refugee children.
“We need to move with speed on the installation of lightning arrestors to safeguard the lives of the people we serve. Having the lightning arrestors will mitigate the risks of death of refugees, especially children, which is an avoidable tragedy if we act now,” said George Kuchio, UNHCR’s Deputy Representative for Protection in Tanzania. Tanzania currently hosts over 240,000 refugees, mainly from Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo, more than half of them being children.
As of 15 December 2023, UNHCR had received only 37 per cent of the resources needed to assist and protect refugees in the country. UNHCR appeals to the international community to support the refugee response, especially to raise funds for lightning arrestors in refugee schools. One refugee child dead from a lightning strike at a school, is one too many.
END You can donate to the initiative by clicking here.
For additional information:
In Dar es Salaam, Bahia Egeh, egehb@unhcr.org, +255 765 168 179
In Nairobi, Faith Kasina, kasina@unhcr.org, +254 113 427 094
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Press Release
22 December 2023
Unified efforts as Tanzania Rallies to Overcome Flood and Mudslide Aftermath
Hanang District, Tanzania - The United Nations, in close partnership with the Tanzanian Government, is actively responding to the severe mudslides and flooding in Hanang District. Following the initial assessments reports, a coordinated and robust response has been implemented to address the critical needs of the affected people and communities.
The Tanzanian Government continues its comprehensive search, rescue, and recovery operations. It has also established designated displacement sites for relocating affected communities. In conjunction with humanitarian organizations, the government is providing essential food and non-food items (NFIs) to those affected by the disaster.
The United Nations agencies have responded quickly and are playing a crucial role in mobilizing additional supplies to assess and address the immediate needs and long-term recovery of the affected populations. Our ongoing efforts include:
The swift mobilization of food supplies to meet the urgent needs of the affected communities by the World Food Programme (WFP).
A central focus of the joint efforts is the prevention of disease outbreaks, with special attention to water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) needs, particularly in displacement sites. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) are leading efforts to restore clean water supplies and promote health and hygiene practices. Specifically, the Deployment of cholera rapid testing kits and essential health supplies by WHO to combat the threat of communicable diseases in the aftermath of the floods; and the quick provision of relief items by UNICEF for WASH services, including hygiene kits, water tanks, purification tabs, and Persona Protective Equipment (PPE) have been essential in disease prevention.
UNICEF has also provided various non-food items, including mattresses, blankets, sleeping bags, children’s clothes and footwear, buckets and soap and supported Risk Communication and Community Engagement, and Mental Health and Psychosocial support activities in the affected areas.
The distribution of dignity kits by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), to support women and girls in the affected areas; the kits, containing a khanga, menstrual pads, bath soap, multiple pairs of underwear, washing soap, toothpaste, and a toothbrush, all packed inside 20 litre buckets will cater to the needs of women and girls.
The Tanzanian Government's ongoing search, rescue, and recovery operations are being bolstered by this UN support, as well as the provision of essential services and supplies in the sites established to support those displaced.
The President of Tanzania has urged proactive measures, emphasizing the relocation of communities from flood-prone areas and calling for the enhancement of national disaster preparedness and response capabilities. This unified response from the United Nations and the Tanzanian Government highlights the international community's commitment to providing relief and recovery assistance to the people of Hanang District in their time of need.
Additional Support in Kigoma Region
The ongoing rains have also affected other regions including Kigoma where the UN agencies (UNHCR, in collaboration with IOM and WFP) are addressing challenges in refugee camps, impacted by heavy rains and thunderstorms, ensuring quick improvements of the damaged infrastructure and continued humanitarian assistance.
Note to the Editor
In light of the ongoing joint efforts of United Nations Tanzania in responding to the catastrophic mudslides and floods in Hanang District, it is crucial to underscore the significant role played by the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) in enhancing the effectiveness of the response to the Hanang District mudslides.
For More Communication Contact:
Nafisa Didi
National Information Officer
Un Information Centre
United Nations Resident Coordinator’s Office in Tanzania
Mobile: +255 229 216
Website: tanzania.un.org
Facebook: United Nations Tanzania
X: @UnitedNationsTZ
Instagram: @unitednations_tz
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