Saturday 8 March 2008

TZ's First Lady addresses IWD

The First Lady, Mama Salma Kikwete has commended women in Tanzania for their continued efforts in eradicating poverty, illiteracy and preventing new Aids infections.

In her congratulatory message to women in the country on the occasion to mark the International Women`s Day today, Mama Salma said the Wanawake na Maendeleo (WAMA) institution which she heads would continue working closely with all women in support of their initiatives to improve their living standards.

``May I take this opportunity to congratulate women in our country who have proved to be family pillars in terms of upbringing of children, devoted contributors to the national economy and determined anti-Aids activists.
Statistics show that women are the most affected social group,`` the statement reads in part.

Commenting on the significance of the International Women's Day, the First Lady said the occasion gave opportunity to women in the country to reflect on their role in the community and devise strategies to raise individual, family and national economy.

``I join the international community in support of this year`s Women`s Day slogan that goes: `Empowering women and gender sharing of financial resources is the basis of development`,`` Mama Salma said.

She also reminded women of their noble responsibility to ensure school attendance for all school-age children, boys and girls alike, and help them make use of the available educational opportunities to the best of their ability.

She said women, as family custodians, should stand together to make a difference this year to help reduce new Aids infections among the youth, console and care for those living with the virus and prevent stigma in the community, beginning at the family level.

* SOURCE: Guardian, 08 Mar 2008
By Patrick Kisembo

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