A Public March of Activists, Practitioners and Government Leaders of Mwanza
Region to mark 2008 International Women’s Day, Buhongwa ward March 8, 2008
“Our main
challenge in preventing Gender Based Violence is that, Street and Village
Leaders do not have adequate knowledge and skills in performing their duties”.
Hon. Lucy Nkya (MP) Deputy Minister for Community Development, Gender and
Children highlighted this capacity gap in her address during the International
Women’s Day in Mwanza.
“Act now” (to prevent Domestic
Violence Against Women), a banner carried by Deputy Minister for Community
Development Gender and Children, during the public march organized by Kivulini
in collaboration with Mwanza City Council to mark the 2008 International Women’s
Day.
“Women shouldn’t
wait or remain silent; it is time to act against Gender Based
Violence”.
Hon. Lucy Nkya stressed that
on ending the Public march.
“As
of next year let us use the International Women’s Day to evaluate the
contribution of state and non- state actors to women empowerment rather than
always demanding from the government”.
Hon. James Msekela (MP),
Regional Commisioner Mwanza.
Engaging young people through traditional drumming to stimulate
debates and discussion on the 2008 International women’s Day
Activists,
Practitioners and Government Leaders carrying banners and posters with messages
calling for community action to end Violence Against Women during the public
march
Community
Dialogue was part of International women’s Day
Why public events such as International
women’s Day are critical in mobilizing Community to prevent Domestic
Violence?
Engaging
the community requires using innovative strategies and awareness raising
campaign, which attract their attention while creating a supportive
environment of open discussion and questioning bahaviours that oppress
women.
Public
events are challenging to organize and engage a cross section of community
members ranging from school children, activists, practitioners and Local
Government Authorities, but if properly planned enable prevention messages
to reach many people and inspire them to act locally. The participation of
high profile Government Leaders re-enforce the messages and motivate local
Government authorities to sustain movement for change in their Streets and
that is more practical to the needs of thousands of women who are
surrounded with fear and can’t walk a long distance to seek support from
formal authority.
During the
commemoration of International Women’s Day on 8th March 2008, a
variety of activities were conducted including; public march, themed
traditional drumming, poetry, drama and community dialogue with invited
Key-note speakers. It is estimated over 2000 Community members
participated in this event organized by Kivulini in collaboration with
Mwanza City Council.
Prepared by Yassin Ally-
Programme Manager Policy Advocacy
Graphics by Koreshi Adamson- IT Officer
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