ROMA – “I have known stories of incredible women, strong, courageous women who have fought, who are still fighting, women who have suffered violence and abuse from their ex-husbands and are trying to fight for their economic independence and to be able to realize their dreams”. This is what Claudia Gerini says, returning from her visit to Tanzania to meet the women involved in the programs ActionAid. These women managed to escape from violent situations thanks to the organisation’s support.
A widespread problem in Tanzania. In Tanzania, gender-based violence is a widespread problem, fueled by economic and cultural inequalities, and represents a major barrier that prevents women from reaching their full potential. Despite progress made to improve women’s economic opportunities, significant barriers remain. Many still face limitations in access to land, work and productive assets, barriers that hinder their economic and social autonomy.
Discrimination has the same matrix everywhere. “I came here – said Claudia Gerini – to testify how the fight against gender discrimination, although different from country to country, has the same discriminatory matrix. Even in Italy we are fighting so that rights and opportunities are truly equal and I believe that only by creating a true sisterhood throughout the world, and seeking alliance with men, will we be able to try to change things and put an end to every form of violence, not only for us, but for the girls of future generations. And we will succeed,” said the actress.
The story of Pirimhamedu: from individual courage to collective struggle. Pirimhamedu Kuliwa, a woman from the village of Singino, in the district of Kilwa, has experienced gender violence first hand. Her story begins at 17, when she becomes pregnant and, due to community pressure, is forced to marry. This marriage marks the beginning of a long series of abuse and deprivation. Pirimhamedu does not enjoy her rights and her husband’s financial and social control prevents her from building an independent future.
Struggling made her discover that she was not alone. After the divorce, she finally hoped to be able to regain her independence, but even in this new phase she had to fight to get what she deserved, finding herself without any financial support. However, this experience of marginalization made her understand that she was not alone: many other women in her community were experiencing similar situations of violence and abuse. Determined to make a difference, she decided to take action. She founded, together with other women in the community, a group to mobilize against gender violence, starting to raise awareness and educate on the issue.
The beginning of the mobilization. “After years of abuse I realized that my life has always been influenced by gender violence. I asked myself: why shouldn’t I fight? So I started mobilizing other women and today, as a women’s rights activist and paralegal, I am ready to motivate and support my fellow women. Violence against women in our community must stop now.”
The fight against early marriages. Today, Pirimhamedu is a paralegal and works to support other women, combating child marriage and promoting women’s rights education. Her determination and commitment have become a symbol of hope for the Kilwa community, where, together with the Kilwa Women’s Forum, she works to put an end to violence against women and ensure that no one ever has to suffer what she experienced again.
ActionAid’s work in Tanzania. Since 1998, the NGO has been working in Tanzania to fight poverty and social injustice, with a particular focus onempowerment of women. The programs promote the formation of women’s groups, the creation of income opportunities and awareness of their rights.
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How has ActionAid’s approach in Tanzania been tailored to address the unique cultural factors and challenges facing women in that region, as described by Pirimhamedu Kuliwa?
## World Today News Podcast: Sisterhood Against Violence – A Conversation with Claudia Gerini and Pirimhamedu Kuliwa
**Introduction:**
Welcome to World Today News, where we bring you in-depth conversations on pressing global issues. Today, we delve into the pervasive problem of gender-based violence, highlighting inspiring stories of female resilience and global solidarity. Joining us are renowned actress Claudia Gerini, who recently visited Tanzania to witness ActionAid’s work empowering women escaping violence, and Pirimhamedu Kuliwa, a Tanzanian activist fighting against gender-based violence in her community.
**(Section 1: Understanding the Global Struggle)**
**Host:** Claudia, you recently visited Tanzania to meet women supported by ActionAid. What struck you most about their stories?
**Claudia Gerini:** (Shares personal reflections on her experience in Tanzania, emphasizing commonalities in struggles faced by women globally).
**Host:** Pirimhamedu, you’ve experienced firsthand the devastating impact of gender-based violence. Can you shed light on the specific challenges women in Tanzania face and the cultural factors that contribute to this issue?
**Pirimhamedu Kuliwa:** (Shares her personal story and insights on the social and economic barriers facing Tanzanian women and the cultural norms that perpetuate violence).
**Host:** Both of you have highlighted the shared struggle against gender discrimination, despite its diverse manifestations across cultures. Claudia, how can global sisterhood and allyship play a role in addressing this issue?
**Claudia Gerini:** (Discusses the importance of international cooperation, raising awareness, and amplifying the voices of women fighting for their rights).
**(Section 2: Empowerment and Resilience)**
**Host:** Pirimhamedu, your journey from victim to activist is truly inspiring. What prompted you to take a stand and mobilize others?
**Pirimhamedu Kuliwa:** (Explains her decision to fight back, the formation of the women’s group, and the initial challenges they faced).
**Host:** How has ActionAid’s support empowered women in your community?
**(Pirimhamedu Kuliwa discusses ActionAid’s impact on economic empowerment, legal literacy, and fostering a collective response to violence).
**Host:** Claudia, how can we encourage more individuals and organizations to support similar initiatives fighting gender-based violence globally?
**Claudia Gerini:** (Offers practical suggestions for individuals and organizations to get involved, emphasizing the power of volunteer work, donations, and advocacy).
** (Section 3: Looking Ahead – A Call to Action)**
**Host:** What is your message to young girls and women around the world who are facing similar challenges?
**(Both guests share messages of hope, resilience, and the importance of seeking support and fighting for their rights)
**Host:** What are your hopes for the future? What concrete steps need to be taken to create a world where gender-based violence is eradicated?
**(Both guests offer insights on long-term solutions, emphasizing the need for policy changes, education, and a shift in societal attitudes).
**Conclusion**
Thank you, Claudia and Pirimhamedu, for sharing your powerful stories and valuable insights. We hope this conversation inspires action and encourages listeners to join the fight against gender-based violence. Remember, everyone has a role to play in creating a world where all individuals are treated with dignity and respect.