Minister Dr. Gwajima Donates Over TZS 500 Million Worth of Equipment to Girls in Mbeya and Songwe Encourages Youth to Seize Opportunities from Partners and Government

Minister of Community Development, Gender, Women, and Special Groups, Hon. Dr. Dorothy Gwajima, has handed over machinery and various equipment to over 40,000 women and girls from the Songwe and Mbeya regions to enhance economic activities and protect them from the risky environments associated with HIV/AIDS.

Dr. Gwajima presented the equipment, valued at TZS 500,841,000, donated by the HJFMRI through the DREAMS project funded by the U.S. President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), on September 10, 2024, in Mbeya.

Addressing leaders, residents, and beneficiaries of the equipment,  Dr. Gwajima urged local government authorities in Mbeya and Songwe regions to focus on overseeing the project through Social Welfare Officers, Community Development Officers, and other experts to ensure more girls benefit.

"These machines will increase opportunities and ensure a reliable market for the products and services provided by our young women. What pleases me is that this project not only helps these girls escape risky environments but also enhances their economic productivity, allowing them to earn income and support themselves and their dependents," Dr. Gwajima stated.

She further thanked partners for their collaboration with the government in community and economic development activities, particularly in economic empowerment initiatives aligned with the National Plan to End Violence Against Women and Children (MTAKUWWA II) 2024/25 - 2028/29 launched in May 2024.

Additionally, Dr. Gwajima expressed gratitude to the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Social Welfare and Development for supporting government and partner efforts to economically empower citizens and protect them from risky environments.