Women and youth form the backbone of the global fisheries sector, taking on pivotal roles that range from harvesting fish to leadership positions. Despite their vital contributions to this industry, gender inequalities often result in the marginalization of their involvement.

Unveiling the Shadows with USAID Heshimu Bahari Project: Addressing Gender-Based Violence among coastal communities

Madam Gift Mchomvu, Seascape Coordinator (SC)

To tackle these pressing challenges, Asasi ya Uwezeshaji Tanzania (ASUTA), with the support of the Heshimu Bahari project, organized two transformative GBV orientation training sessions—one in Dar es Salaam and another in Mtwara—aimed at enhancing understanding and addressing prevalent gender issues within local fishing communities. The first GBV orientation training was held at the Baracuda Beach Hotel in Kigamboni District, gathering fisheries officers, Marine Protected Area (MMA) managers, and Beach Management Unit (BMU) leaders. The session highlighted how GBV undermines not only individual lives but also entire communities and sustainable development efforts. Many participants had previously limited awareness of the intricate link between GBV and sustainable development. However, the training proved to be a transformative experience, significantly deepening their understanding of the issue. One of the session's core aspects was empowering women and youth with knowledge about their rights and the mechanisms available for reporting GBV incidents. Many attendees left with a newfound awareness of the resources and support at their disposal. Participants learned about their legal rights, reporting procedures, and available support services, which equipped them to navigate these systems confidently. This empowerment fosters a more proactive and supportive community environment, allowing individuals to confront and overcome barriers related to GBV.

Equipping participants with the tools to advocate for Gender Equality

The training emphasized that GBV encompasses various forms of violence based on gender, including physical, sexual, and emotional abuse, and that VAC refers to violence directed at children. The interplay of societal attitudes, power imbalances, and cultural beliefs contributes to the perpetuation of these issues. Responses must involve preventive measures, support services, and robust policy frameworks, such as USAID’s safeguarding policy, which seeks to protect individuals and ensure effective interventions. The GBV training sessions in both Dar es Salaam and Mtwara represented a significant step toward strengthening community resilience and raising awareness about gender-based violence.

Empowered and Unified: GBV training participants come together after an insightful session

Participants are now equipped with essential tools and knowledge to advocate for actionable solutions that promote gender equality in various contexts, including economic, social, and political spheres. The unity displayed during these sessions reflects a shared commitment to driving positive change within their communities, fostering a collaborative spirit that transcends individual differences. As they return to their respective regions, these empowered individuals are ready to implement practical strategies that address gender-based violence (GBV) and ensure marginalized voices are heard and valued. They plan to engage local stakeholders, conduct community awareness campaigns, and leverage social media to raise awareness about gender issues.