Women Empowerment Project

UFUNDIKO

For many sub-Saharan countries, poverty has created a vicious cycle that leaves many groups of people feeling vulnerable, undervalued and underheard, most notably women. Girls and women are marginalized and typically don’t live a life in which they can speak up and make the most of what they are capable of. Empowering women and promoting gender equality is crucial to the future growth and progress of Tanzania. Youth under 15 years of age comprise 45 percent of Tanzania’s population of over 53 million people (UN Population Division, 2015). At the current growth rate, Tanzania’s population is projected to reach 70 million by 2025. Despite these numbers, women and youth are among the most marginalized and underutilized Tanzanian citizens. Tanzanian women and girls remain among the most marginalized and underutilized citizens in sub-Saharan Africa. Enabling gender equality and empowering women are critical to advancing progress and growth in Tanzania. Tanzanian women and girls must have greater access to and control over resources, opportunities, and decision-making power in order to sustainably reduce extreme poverty, build healthy communities, and promote inclusive growth.