Eradicating Violence: Mwanza Conference Ignites Religious Leaders' Commitment

Yesterday, the Hon. Dr. Dorothy Gwajima, Minister of Social Development, Gender, Women and Special Groups, inaugurated a conference with the objective of mobilising religious leaders in the Mwanza region to address the issue of violence against women, children and persons with disabilities.

This initiative follows the Minister’s visit to the Misungwi Community Development College on 17 September 2024, during which she conducted an inspection of the ongoing construction of a girls’ dormitory. The visit served to illustrate the government’s commitment to addressing the issues of child marriages, pregnancies, and sexual violence.

During the conference, Dr. Gwajima underscored the pivotal function of religious leaders in fostering social cohesion and eliminating violence. She exhorted them to leverage their influence to denounce and preclude such detrimental practices.

“As spiritual guides, you possess considerable influence within your communities,” Dr. Gwajima stated. “Your voices can serve as catalysts for positive change, inspiring individuals to embrace gender equality and respect for human rights.”

The conference assembled a diverse group of religious leaders from various faith traditions, who collectively recognized their shared responsibility in fostering a society free from violence. They pledged to utilise their teachings and influence to enhance awareness, challenge harmful beliefs and provide support to victims of abuse.

“Our faith obligates us to safeguard the vulnerable and denounce injustice,” stated Bishop Moses Kanyoro of the Catholic Diocese of Mwanza. “This conference has reaffirmed our commitment to collaborate in the pursuit of a society free from violence in all its forms.”

Furthermore, the conference addressed the significance of community engagement and collaboration in addressing the underlying causes of violence. It was acknowledged by all participants that the involvement of men, youth and women is essential for the development and implementation of effective prevention programmes.

“It is imperative that the entire community be involved if lasting change is to be achieved,” stated Sheikh Suleiman Issa of the Muslim Council of Tanzania. “It is imperative that we cultivate a social milieu wherein violence is regarded as unacceptable and survivors are provided with the requisite support.”

The Minister’s visit and the conference have engendered a reinvigorated sense of urgency and determination among religious leaders in Mwanza. They are dedicated to maintaining their efforts to cultivate a culture of respect, equality, and non-violence for all members of society.

Tanzania Media