On October 22, 2024, FAWE Zanzibar celebrated a significant milestone with the successful handover of equipment to beneficiaries in the Kusini region under the Joint Programme on Rural Women’s Economic Empowerment (JP RWEE) project, funded by UN Women. The handover function took place at the Mkuu Mkoa Kusini Police Headquarters Hall, with the South Region Commissioner as the Guest of Honour and UN Women Tanzania Director Madam Catherine in attendance. This event highlights FAWE Zanzibar’s and UN Women’s shared commitment to enhancing economic opportunities for women in rural areas.

The following essential items were distributed during the event, aimed at supporting the economic activities and safety of women in the Kusini region:

Rain Boots: 144 pairs to support agricultural activities in challenging terrains.
Life Jackets: 90 units for safety during fishing and coastal activities.
Fire Extinguishers: 4 units to enhance safety in work and community spaces.
First Aid Kits: 2 units for emergency preparedness in case of injuries or health issues.
Sewing Machines (Butterfly): 6 units to enable women to start or expand tailoring businesses.
Overlock Machines: 2 units to enhance garment finishing, improving product quality for local and external markets.
Scissors: 6 units, Threads (Nyuzi): 6 units, Oil for Sewing Machines: 6 units, Hand Needles (Sindano Mkono): 6 packs, Machine Needles (Sindano Cherehani): 6 packs, and Measuring Tapes: 6 units to provide the necessary tools for sewing and tailoring.
Boil Rings: 18 units and Boil Cases: 12 units for safe cooking practices, catering to the specific needs of rural households.
Toys: Various units distributed to community members, supporting local childcare initiatives and bringing joy to young children.
The South Region Commissioner praised the initiative, recognizing it as a transformative step toward fostering economic resilience among rural women in the region. Madam Catherine, UN Women Tanzania Director, emphasized the importance of equipping women with both practical tools and knowledge to increase their economic independence and improve their overall quality of life.

Through the distribution of these resources, FAWE Zanzibar and UN Women are empowering women to take charge of their economic futures, supporting diverse opportunities in agriculture, fishing, tailoring, and small businesses. This handover event is not just a material donation but a catalyst for lasting, positive change in the lives of women and their families across the Kusini region.