Habari za Jioni (Good evening),

Tonight, it is about the women in our society—our sisters, daughters, and friends. Tonight, we want to recognise the women who, through their vision, talents, persistence, endurance, and dedication, have succeeded in building their own businesses despite the many challenges and struggles they have encountered along the way.

While there have been notable achievements in women’s economic empowerment, there remains room for improvement. Women constitute more than 51% of the population (National Population and Housing Census, 2022), yet the distribution of economic opportunities between women and men remains unequal across various sectors. Women face distinct struggles that are unique to their gender.

For instance, land inheritance rights—often used as collateral—usually go to men. Only 49% of women have access to finance, specifically loans from financial institutions (FinScope, 2023). Many women are also exposed to violence and abuses, including sextortion, while juggling the double burden of managing households as mothers, wives, and daughters, alongside running their businesses.

Therefore, women deserve our special attention. We celebrate all women who become successful entrepreneurs, as they can inspire and serve as role models for today’s girls. I am particularly grateful that under the FUNGUO programme, we emphasise the role of women in entrepreneurship—not only by ring-fencing part of the grants specifically for women but also by dedicating this short documentary to their cause. Hongera sana (Congratulations) to the female entrepreneurs in our midst—you have truly accomplished a lot!

I would also like to take this opportunity to highlight the work we are doing together with the Ministry of Community Development, Gender, and Women and Special Groups. Two years ago, we began our journey with the governments of Tanzania Mainland and Zanzibar with a new flagship programme, Gender Transformative Action: Breaking the Class Ceiling, worth EUR 90 million, equivalent to over TZS 240 billion.

This significant investment has already served as a catalyst for further support. Together with our Member States, we now have a total joint commitment of approximately TZS 560 billion to improve gender equality and empower women and girls.

Our collective vision, alongside the Government, civil society, and private sector, is to build a society where women have equal opportunities to start and develop businesses on their own; where women can secure employment based on their competencies without their personal situations being questioned; where women are paid equally for the same work; and where women are respected, able to make their own decisions, and exercise their choices without harassment.

I am now looking forward to hearing from the four female founders who are here tonight. They will share their stories and testimonials on how they overcame obstacles to become the successful entrepreneurs they are today.

As you have heard, you have our wholehearted support, and we will continue to champion the cause of women’s economic empowerment—no matter the sector or location in Tanzania. Congratulations again, and Hongera sana! (Congratulations)