Dar es Salaam, Tanzania — 24 November 2024: T-MARC Tanzania under the USAID Kijana Nahodha project participated in the 2024 Anti-GBV Marathon alongside other USAID projects (Afya Yangu, Kizazi Hodari) and development partners, reaffirming its commitment to ending gender-based violence (GBV) and promoting gender equality. The event, organized by Gender Action Tanzania (GATA), was held under the theme Beijing Platform for Action, with the powerful message:
“Miaka 30 ya Beijing, Chagua Kutokomeza Ukatili dhidi ya Wanawake na Wasichana” (30 Years of Beijing: Choose to End Violence Against Women and Girls).
The marathon served as a key platform to raise a
wareness about the impacts of GBV and inspire collective action to end harmful practices. Over 100 youth participants from the USAID Kijana Nahodha project took part in the event, deepening their understanding of GBV and reaffirming their commitment to building safer, more equitable communities.
Beyond awareness-raising, the marathon focused on personal development, physical fitness, and community solidarity. It gave participants the chance to reflect on their role as change-makers, reinforcing the shared responsibility of combating GBV. The event also provided an opportunity for youth entrepreneurs supported by the project to showcase their products, demonstrating the impact of the project on their economic empowerment.
The marathon brought together government representatives, civil society organizations, and grassroots communities, emphasizing the urgent need to address GBV as a barrier to development. It highlighted the destructive effects of GBV on health, safety, and economic opportunities, particularly for women and girls, and stressed the importance of collective action to create a more just society.
Aaron, one of the youth participants in the marathon, reflected on the event’s impact:
"This marathon has opened my eyes to the importance of being an active citizen in the fight against gender-based violence. I now understand that it is not just about raising awareness, but about taking action in our communities. This event has motivated me to lead by example and help spread the message that GBV has no place in our society. I am now more determined to create a safe and equal environment for all."
