For All Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment. Joint Statement from the United Nations System in Tanzania

Thirty years ago, the world came together in Beijing to shape a bold vision: a future where gender equality is not just an aspiration but a lived reality. As we commemorate this International Women’s Day, marking the anniversary of that historic commitment, we recognize both the significant progress made for women and girls and the challenges that persist.

Since the adoption of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action in 1995, Tanzania has made remarkable strides in advancing women’s and girls' rights. More girls than ever are enrolling and staying in school, maternal health has significantly improved, and access to HIV prevention and treatment services for women and girls has expanded. Women’s economic participation is growing, with increasing access to financial inclusion, entrepreneurship opportunities, and formal employment. Efforts to prevent and respond to gender-based violence have been strengthened. More women are leading in innovation and entrepreneurship—driving startups, shaping emerging industries, and advancing technological solutions. Furthermore, women’s leadership in government, business, and diplomacy continues to expand, with a woman leading the nation as a powerful symbol of progress.

These achievements are a testament to the collective efforts and unwavering commitment to gender equality. However, despite these advances, persistent barriers remain.

Today, we stand at a defining moment—one where we can become the first generation to achieve gender equality and ensure that no woman or girl is left behind. To do so, we must accelerate progress and deepen our commitment to gender-transformative action.

Investing in girls' education and women’s economic empowerment is not just about fairness, although that by itself is a worthy cause as any; these investments are powerful catalysts for national growth and prosperity. Equipping women and girls with digital skills and access to technology will unlock new opportunities in the digital economy. Strengthening prevention and response mechanisms to gender-based violence is equally critical, ensuring that every woman, girl, and boy can live free from fear and harm. Moreover, expanding women's leadership in decision-making will lead to more inclusive and representative policies that drive sustainable development for the benefit of all.

As Tanzania and the world confront the challenges of climate change, women and girls must be at the forefront of solutions—leading efforts in sustainability, conservation, and environmental resilience. A key initiative in this effort is Tanzania’s Clean Cooking Initiative, which aims to expand access to clean cooking solutions, reducing dependence on traditional fuels, improving health outcomes, empowering women economically, and contributing to lower carbon emissions.

Tanzania’s Development Vision 2050 (TDV 2050) sets an ambitious course for sustainable economic growth, technological transformation, and human development. Achieving this vision requires placing gender equality at the center of national development efforts. This demands bold, systemic change that redefines social and economic norms, ensuring that women and girls have equal opportunities, agency, and access to resources. By empowering women and girls as entrepreneurs, leaders, and changemakers, Tanzania will build an inclusive, knowledge-based economy where no one is left behind.

As we continue working toward gender equality, the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action remains the most transformative global framework for achieving women’s rights. The goal remains unchanged: to ensure that every individual, regardless of gender, including forcibly displaced persons has the opportunity to reach their full potential. By removing barriers to equality, we create stronger families, more resilient economies, and thriving communities.

On this International Women’s Day—and every day—the UN system in Tanzania stands proudly alongside the Government and all stakeholders in driving progress. We are committed to turning ambition into sustained change through stronger partnerships, increased investment, and bold action.

We look forward to continuing our collective efforts to fully realize the vision of the Beijing Declaration, championing rights, equality, and empowerment for all women and girls.