Ruvuma Region has been advised to embrace gender equality at all levels starting with the basic unit of society, the family. Statement to that end was made by a resident (anonymous) of Tanga ward in the Songea Municipality of Ruvuma Region. Equal access to education regardless of gender was aired by yet another resident whose name is also not disclosed.

They were contributing opinions during an open gender equality discussion organized by the Songea District Non-Governmental Organisations (SONGO).

Esther Msemwa (a Ruvuma resident) said segregation against women was still a problem in the country, and that it starts at the family level, with most girls being undermined and considered inferior to the boys.

If gender inequality is to be curbed then efforts must start at the family level when children are being molded. Broadening the approach, Fatuma Misango a representative from a local NGO, said it was imperative that Tanzania combats gender inequality at all levels and in all its manifestations.

Charles Mhagama, Municipal Mayor Songea, underlined the importance of a grass root approach to the problem saying families have the responsibility to cultivate and mold boys and girls equally, sharing love and care for one another.

He said that people bear the responsibility to take initiatives that will bring about positive change in their lives instead of waiting for the government to do so. He also challenged leaders to convene all meetings as per the calendars in order to eliminate complaints from the public.