Dar es Salaam, A significant meeting was held on 2nd December 2023, organized by UNESCO’s O3 project in collaboration with the Ministry of Community Development, Gender Elders and Children (MCDGEC) of Zanzibar. The event brought together 70 women district coordinators to discuss strategies in the fight against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Zanzibar. The one-day sensitization meeting focused on exchanging knowledge and skills on GBV prevention and parenting.

According to United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, the gathering provided a crucial platform for women district coordinators, who are activists in GBV prevention, to share experiences and challenges faced in their districts. The meeting also facilitated a dialogue between the government and these activists, addressing issues that impede GBV prevention efforts and discussing government mechanisms for reporting GBV cases.

Principal Secretary from the MCDGEC, Ms. Abeda Rashid Abdallah, officiated the meeting, emphasizing the importance of education for women and children as a key tool to end gender-based violence. She highlighted the need for continued collaboration between activists and the government to make significant strides in combating GBV.

This meeting was a part of the 16 days of activism against gender-based violence campaign in Zanzibar, underscoring the commitment to empowering women and promoting safer communities through education and active engagement.