[PRESSWIRE] DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania – 2026-03-08 — Samia Suluhu Hassan, president of Tanzania, has called for stronger collective efforts to advance women’s rights and gender equality.

In a message marking International Women's Day, the president said empowering women and girls is essential for achieving the country’s long-term development goals.

This year’s commemoration in Tanzania is guided by the theme “Rights and Equality for Women and Girls: An Inclusive Foundation for Achieving Vision 2050,” while the global theme is “Rights. Justice. Action. For All Women and Girls.”

“Achieving the country’s long-term development aspirations requires promoting equality, protecting women’s rights and encouraging solidarity within communities,” Samia said.

She said women play a central role in families and society as caregivers, leaders and contributors to economic and social development.

“Women nurture families, communities and nations, and their contribution is fundamental to the development of our society,” she said.

Samia also stressed the need to strengthen efforts to protect the health and well-being of mothers and children.

She noted that her role as the African Union Champion for Maternal, Child and Reproductive Health provides an opportunity to mobilise collective action to reduce preventable maternal and child deaths.

“This responsibility calls for mobilising collective efforts to ensure every mother and child enjoys the right to quality healthcare,” she said.

The president urged women across sectors including entrepreneurs, farmers, professionals, teachers and healthcare workers to work together to promote empowerment initiatives.

She also called on community leaders and civil society organisations to strengthen cooperation in programmes supporting education, healthcare and economic opportunities for women and girls.

Samia said investing in women’s well-being contributes significantly to national development and stronger communities.

She concluded by wishing women in Tanzania and worldwide a meaningful International Women’s Day.

·     Tanzania marked the 2026 commemoration under the national theme“Rights and Equality for Women and Girls: An Inclusive Foundation for Achieving Vision 2050.”Media Contact:Information Services Department and Office of The Chief Government Spokesman E-mail: maelezotv@gmail.comPhone: +255 754 750 765; +255 754 698 856; +255 759 714; +255 713 381 904Availability: EAT, UTC +3