THE Tanzanian community has been urged to use advancements in information and communication technology (ICT) and other methods, including the use of khanga (a traditional cloth), to spread the message against gender-based violence (GBV) in the country.

Speaking to women from various backgrounds such as food vendors, teachers, and entrepreneurs at the climax of the 16 Days of Activism Against GBV, Dakama Ward Officer Tumshukuru Mudui, emphasized that the 16 days of activism, coupled with women’s training, marked a significant step towards a society free from GBV.

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank Taifa Gas, Barrick Bulyanhulu, and other partners for organizing this unique and innovative event aimed at promoting the fight against GBV and advocating for the use of clean energy (gas) to mitigate the effects of climate change and environmental degradation in the country," he said.

He also highlighted the importance of women’s participation in training sessions and their role in spreading information and education about GBV in primary and secondary schools, ensuring a better understanding of the issue from the grassroots level to the national stage.

He further praised the Tanzania Police Force for establishing gender desks to address GBV issues, while collaborating with various partners and other institutions to enhance the fight against GBV.

Barrick Bulyanhulu General Manager, Victor Lule, emphasized the need to leverage technological advancements as an effective channel for tackling GBV at the national, regional, and international levels.

“It is very sad that, even in this era of technology, we still encounter barbaric acts against women and children, some of which have led to loss of life,” he said.

Barrick Bulyanhulu Mine Community Relations and Environmental Manager, Agapiti Paul, mentioned that the 16-day training sessions for women in surrounding communities had a positive impact. The women were now more aware of GBV and its solutions.

“We have been using these sessions not only to educate about GBV but also to promote the use of clean cooking energy as a way to support the efforts of President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s government,” he said.

Joshua Julius, energy firm Zonal Sales Manager, , expressed that the company had decided to join the 16 Days of Activism Against GBV by supporting the distribution of clean energy stoves, in line with President 

and called for the government and other stakeholders to continue with such a programme next year.

Joyce Felix (28), who holds a certificate on health issues, noted that training was a gateway for women to lift themselves out of GBV and any misconduct from the grassroots to regional level.

“We are aware that the media can also assist to raise the voices of women as the majority of us are voiceless on GBV. I now know how to report to the police and other helpful centres such as paralegals,” she said.

Barrick Bulyanhulu partners for this year's commemoration included the Tanzania Police Force through gender desks, district councils, nongovernmental organisations (NGOs) such as Voluntary Service Overseas (VSO), Life Changing Foundation (LCF), Jadra, Hope for the Girls and Women (HGWT),  Bowmans Law firm, and a renowned gas production and distribution company, Taifa Gas, to bring about positive change on GBV.