President Samia Suluhu Hassan has delivered a resounding message: “It’s time for women to seize leadership opportunities and prove their capabilities in high-level decision-making”.

Speaking in Dar es Salaam during the 10th anniversary of the Women Leadership Programme by the Association of Tanzania Employers (ATE), President Samia urged women to be proactive in their leadership journeys, emphasizing the need for commitment, professionalism, and resilience. 

She challenged the long-standing belief that leadership is a male-dominated domain, encouraging women to break barriers and take their rightful place at decision-making tables. 

Reflecting on her own journey, the president candidly recalled the doubts that clouded her ascension to the presidency in 2021. 

Many questioned whether a woman could effectively lead a nation. Yet, through determination and visionary leadership, she has transformed Tanzania’s political and economic landscape, proving that gender is no obstacle to effective governance.

Over the past four years, she has systematically dismantled stereotypes, showcasing that women in leadership can drive meaningful change. 

Her journey stands as a testament to resilience, inspiring women to rise above criticism and build credibility through action.

President Samia also underscored the importance of women’s active participation in the upcoming general elections, urging them to not only cast their votes but also vie for leadership positions. 

She reiterated that gender equality, as enshrined in Tanzania’s Constitution, is about equal opportunities, not about surpassing men.

However, she reminded women of the delicate balance between leadership and personal responsibilities, stressing that their roles as caregivers and nurturers should not be overlooked. "Women must unite to eliminate harmful stereotypes and empower each other to rise," she affirmed.

Among the prominent voices supporting women’s empowerment was Violet Mordichai, a board member of Stanbic Bank Tanzania. She highlighted the bank’s initiatives to foster female leadership, including the Ignite Women Leadership Programme, which has propelled 54 percent of its participants into promotions or expanded roles.

She also showcased the bank’s broader impact, citing the Stanbic Business Incubator, which has empowered over 5,000 women-led enterprises, and the RISE programme, which supports female entrepreneurs in clean energy and financial inclusion. 

With over 1,000 women already benefiting, the initiative aims to reach 2,000 more across five additional regions.

Encouraging women to take control of their futures, Mordichai emphasized, "Leadership is not about waiting for permission. It’s about stepping forward with confidence and seizing opportunities in business, government, and beyond."

The Women Leadership Programme, now in its 10th year, has trained 462 graduates, with this year’s cohort being the largest yet.

 Initiatives like the Supplier Development Programme, boasting 60 percent female participation, continue to increase local women’s involvement in strategic projects.

Dickson Senzi, Stanbic Bank's Senior Manager for External Affairs, Communication, and Reputation, reflected on the bank’s role in driving Tanzania’s economic growth. 

Ranked as one of top five largest banks in Tanzania according to the 2024 financial report, Stanbic continues to expand its footprint, with six new branches set to open this year, complementing its existing 11 branches and over 1,500 agents nationwide.

Janeth Mushi, a Stanbic Bank employee and this year's Female Future Programme graduate, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to sharpen her leadership skills.

She emphasized the significance of this recognition, which highlights Tanzania’s advancements in maternal, newborn, child nutrition, and health (MNCNH).

Doran also commended President Samia’s dedication to clean cooking energy initiatives, promoting sustainability and public health.

Ridhiwani Kikwete, Minister of Labour, Youth, Employment, and People with Disabilities, applauded ATE for its role in fostering workplace equality and leadership training. Plans are already underway to extend similar opportunities to women in the police force.