Addressing gender equality in Kinondoni

In Kinondoni Municipal Council of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, a dedicated team of government officials is working with a transformative initiative to address gender inequalities and promote inclusivity. Known as Team Kinondoni in ICLD’s programme Gender mainstreaming, this trio of professionals – Mr. Ezra Ngereza, Ms. Tekla Mlyansi, and Mr. John Deogratius – embodies a shared commitment to fostering gender equity and equality within their municipality.
Their journey began with a clear motivation: to enhance their knowledge and qualifications on gender issues and contribute to positive change in their community. They recognized the urgent need to mainstream gender considerations into key sectors such as planning, budgeting, and service provision. By seizing the opportunity presented by ICLD, Team Kinondoni embarked on a mission to equip themselves with the tools and skills necessary for promoting gender equality effectively.
Their initial expectations were ambitious yet pragmatic. They aimed to gain a deeper understanding of gender concepts and frameworks, acquire practical tools for gender analysis, and develop advocacy skills to champion gender-sensitive approaches. Moreover, they sought to expand their professional network and collaborate with experts in the field, all with the overarching goal of creating more inclusive and equitable societies.
Team Kinondoni’s composition reflects a diverse set of skills and expertise, each member bringing a unique perspective to the table. Mr. Ezra Ngereza, a seasoned medical doctor and health planning coordinator, leads the team’s efforts to integrate gender perspectives into municipal plans and budgets. Ms. Tekla Mlyansi, a dedicated social welfare officer, focuses on ensuring that marginalized groups, especially persons with disabilities, have equitable access to essential services. Mr. John Deogratius, a community development officer and municipal registrar, leverages his position to engage stakeholders and organizations in gender mainstreaming initiatives.
The team has had good support from many colleagues and politicians in the district, especially from the politician who has been attached to the team during the training programme, Councillor Jacqueline Kweka.
Impacting the community
The immediate impact of the programme on Team Kinondoni and their work is significant. With newfound knowledge and skills, they have become adept at conducting gender equality assessments, providing gender-sensitive services, and fostering greater awareness and sensitivity among their colleagues and constituents. Collaboration and communication within the team have improved, leading to more effective problem-solving and decision-making processes.
In practical terms, the programme has translated into tangible outcomes for the community. From increased access to vocational training for persons with disabilities to a rise in the number of women benefiting from municipal loans for entrepreneurship, Team Kinondoni’s efforts are making a difference on the ground. Health-seeking behaviors have improved, community stakeholders are more engaged, and gender-sensitive budgeting has become the norm rather than the exception.
Looking ahead, Team Kinondoni envisions a future marked by strengthened local democracy, sustainable development, and gender-responsive governance. By integrating gender perspectives into decision-making processes and policies, they aim to create a more equitable and inclusive society where all individuals have equal opportunities to thrive. Transparency, participation, and accountability will remain central pillars of their work, ensuring that progress towards gender equality is measured, monitored, and sustained.
In conclusion, Team Kinondoni exemplifies the transformative power of collaborative action and the enduring impact of gender mainstreaming initiatives at the grassroots level. Through their dedication and perseverance, they are paving the way for a more just and equitable future for all residents of Kinondoni Municipality.