International Women’s Day in Tanzania
One of the mamas from the children’s village and Hannah at the event
International Women’s Day is celebrated widely in Tanzania on March 8th. It’s a day that raises awareness for women’s rights and highlights systemic injustices. Despite notable progress under President Samia Suluhu Hassan – the country’s first female head of state – significant gender inequalities still persist. However, there are encouraging developments: In the Global Gender Gap Report published annually by the World Economic Forum, gender equality is assessed in four key categories – economic participation, access to education, healthcare, and political empowerment. In 2023, Tanzania was ranked 48th out of 146 countries. Compared to the previous year, the country moved up 16 spots – progress that can partly be attributed to President Hassan’s leadership. She has actively promoted women’s rights, expanded access to the labor market and education for women, and – through her own position – sends a powerful message about the importance of female political representation.
International Women’s Day carries deep meaning for women, girls, and children across the country. Communities, organizations, associations, and churches come together to celebrate the day. It is common for participants to dress in matching Kitenge fabric – a vibrant printed cotton cloth – as a symbol of solidarity. Women use this opportunity to draw attention to their rights and to encourage one another to challenge patriarchal structures. From my experience, it is above all a celebration of community and a way to amplify the voices of women. It is a day full of pride, marked by demonstrations, events, and festivities where many women gather to celebrate their strength and unity.
Last year (2024), a women’s run was held in Iringa to mark International Women’s Day. Participants registered in advance, received a starting number and a T-shirt, and gathered early in the city center. After a lively warm-up session with music and high spirits, a large group of women ran through Iringa. At the finish line, everyone came together to eat, dance, and celebrate with medals – a powerful expression of community and togetherness.
This year (2025), I – Hannah – had the opportunity as a volunteer to accompany the house mothers from the children’s village to a large Women’s Day event. In the late morning, we set off together for Ilula, a town not far from the village where the celebration would take place. Even during the car ride, the joyful and excited mood of the house mothers was infectious.
The event hall and its outdoor space had been beautifully decorated, and the women were all dressed up – many of them wearing dresses made from the same vibrant Kitenge fabric as a symbol of unity. The event featured a lively program, with speeches, dance performances, and even comedic sketches. Between the official segments, people danced, cheered, and laughed together in a cheerful and uplifting atmosphere. Guests of honor from the worlds of politics and culture also attended the celebration. It wasn’t until the evening that we made our way back to the village.
Looking back, what impressed me most about this day was the strong sense of unity and sisterhood that was so clearly lived and celebrated. I truly felt part of a confident, proud, and empowered community of women. This day will remain a very special and positive memory from my volunteer experience.
Karla Lettgen & Hannah Mohr