IRINGA: IRINGA Region has issued loans worth 5.001bn/- to 530 women’s groups through local government authorities, as efforts to expand women’s economic opportunities and strengthen household incomes continue.
Iringa Regional Commissioner, Mr Kheri James disclosed the figures yesterday during celebrations marking International Rural Women’s Day at Vitono Village in Uhambingeto Ward, Kilolo District.
He urged rural women to take advantage of available economic opportunities to increase production, improve family incomes and contribute to national development under Tanzania’s Development Vision 2050.
“Women played a significant role in food production, agriculture, livestock keeping, trade and family care, but continued to face challenges accessing capital, technology, markets, education and productive resources,” Mr James said.
He called for greater cooperation between the government and other stakeholders to address the challenges and strengthen women’s economic participation.
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The regional commissioner said government support, including loans provided by local government authorities to special groups, was among the measures aimed at creating opportunities for women to expand their economic activities.
Speaking at the event, Community Development Officer from the Ministry of Community Development, Gender, Women and Special Groups, Ms Josia Saoke, said the celebrations provided an opportunity to recognise rural women’s contributions and promote their access to resources and economic opportunities.
He also emphasised the importance of involving women in decisions concerning development.
This year’s celebrations were held under the theme, “Rural Women: A Force for Production, a Catalyst for Well-being and National Development towards Vision 2050,” which focuses on strengthening women’s role in production, family welfare and national development.