International Women’s Day is celebrated widely in Tanzania on March 8th each year. The day raises awareness about women’s rights and highlights ongoing injustices. Despite some progress under President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who holds the highest office in the country, significant gender disparities still persist. Nevertheless, there are notable advancements: each year, the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report evaluates gender equality across four key categories—economic participation, educational attainment, health outcomes, and political participation. In 2023, Tanzania ranked 48th out of 146 countries, moving up 16 places compared to the previous year. This improvement is partly attributed to President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who has actively championed women’s rights, enhanced women’s access to the labor market, and expanded educational opportunities. Her presence as a female head of state sends a powerful message about women’s political engagement and representation in society.
International Women’s Day holds profound significance here for all women, girls, and children. Communities, organizations, clubs, and churches come together to celebrate the occasion. A common tradition is dressing uniformly in a *kitenge*—a vibrant, patterned cotton fabric—symbolizing unity and solidarity. Women use the day to raise awareness about their rights and to encourage resistance against patriarchal systems. In my perception, the day is deeply rooted in community and aims to amplify women’s voices. It is celebrated with pride through demonstrations, events, and especially festive gatherings where many women come together to honor and celebrate the day.
Last year (2024), a women’s run took place in Iringa on March 8th. After prior registration, participants received a race number and a T-shirt, and then gathered early in the morning in the city center. After a short warm-up with lively music and great enthusiasm, a large group of women ran together through the streets of Iringa. At the end of the event, there was shared food, dancing, and the awarding of medals. As in many other celebrations, this event was also deeply about fostering a sense of community and solidarity among women.
Last year (2024), a women’s run took place in Iringa on March 8th. After prior registration, participants received a race number and a T-shirt, and then gathered early in the morning in the city center. After a short warm-up with lively music and great enthusiasm, a large group of women ran together through the streets of Iringa. At the end of the event, there was shared food, dancing, and the awarding of medals. As in many other celebrations, this event was also deeply about fostering a sense of community and solidarity among women.
The event hall and its surrounding area had been beautifully decorated for the occasion, and all the women had dressed up elegantly. Many of them, as previously mentioned, wore handmade outfits made from the same vibrant kitenge fabric—a powerful symbol of unity and belonging. The program was rich and varied, featuring speeches, dance performances, and humorous acts. Between the different segments, the atmosphere remained joyful, with everyone dancing together, cheering, and laughing heartily. Prominent guests from politics and the cultural scene also joined the celebration. It wasn’t until late evening that we returned to the children’s village.
Looking back, what struck me most was the genuine sense of 'we-togetherness' experienced on the ground that day. I felt truly part of a confident, proud, and fulfilled community of women. In this way, I will forever remember this day as a deeply positive and meaningful experience during my volunteer service.
Karla L. und Hannah M.