Advancing Women’s Leadership through #WanawakeSasa
Through the #WanawakeSasa project, implemented by Women in Law and Development in Africa Tanzania (WiLDAF Tanzania) with support from the Embassy of Ireland in Tanzania, tangible progress is being made toward transforming women’s leadership at the community level.
Rather than focusing on activities alone, the initiative is generating measurable and meaningful impact in how women participate, lead, and influence decision-making spaces.
Expanded Pipeline of Women Leaders
A total of 127 women leaders and aspiring leaders were identified across Zanzibar and Misungwi District, significantly strengthening the pipeline of women ready to take up leadership roles.
This outcome contributes to:
- Increased visibility of women leaders at grassroots level
- Recognition of emerging leaders who were previously overlooked
- A stronger foundation for future leadership development initiatives
Strengthened Cross-Political Collaboration
Women from diverse political affiliations—including Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), Civic United Front (CUF), and ACT Wazalendo—came together in a shared space.
This has led to:
- Reduced political and social barriers among women leaders
- Increased collaboration across party lines
- Creation of safe dialogue spaces that prioritize shared goals over political differences
Enhanced Confidence and Leadership Readiness
Women at different stages of their leadership journeys engaged in shared learning and exchange, leading to:
- Improved confidence among emerging women leaders
- Strengthened leadership identity and ambition
- Increased readiness to pursue leadership positions within political and governance structures
Established Foundations for Mentorship and Peer Learning
By bringing together experienced leaders and newcomers, the initiative has created a sustainable ecosystem for mentorship and knowledge exchange.
Key impacts include:
- Organic mentorship relationships between experienced and emerging leaders
- Ongoing peer support networks within communities
- A culture of collective growth and shared leadership
Improved Understanding of Leadership Pathways
The initiative has generated deeper insights into how women navigate leadership at the local level.
This has resulted in:
- Clearer identification of barriers and opportunities in leadership pathways
- Better-informed strategies to support women’s political participation
- Increased awareness among communities about the importance of women in leadership
6. Shift in Community Perceptions on Women’s Leadership
Through inclusive engagement—including male champions and community stakeholders—the project is contributing to gradual but important shifts in social norms.
Observed changes include:
- Increased acceptance of women in leadership roles
- Growing community support for women’s participation in decision-making
- Reduced stigma and resistance toward women’s political engagement
Strengthened Local Leadership Ecosystems
The mapping and engagement process has contributed to building more inclusive and supportive local leadership environments.
This is reflected in:
- Stronger networks connecting women leaders within and across communities
- Increased coordination among stakeholders supporting women’s leadership
- A more enabling environment for women to lead safely and effectively
Driving Sustainable Change
Through Wanawake Sasa, WiLDAF Tanzania is not only identifying women leaders—but actively contributing to a long-term transformation of leadership systems.
These impacts collectively advance:
- Gender equality in leadership and governance
- Inclusive decision-making processes
- Sustainable community development across Tanzania