Women, Peace and Security

Since gaining independence, the United Republic of Tanzania (URT) has maintained stability and ranks 7th out of 44 of the most peaceful countries in Sub-Saharan Africa, according to the Global Peace Index 2024 Tanzania has historically played a major role in regional and international peace and security efforts and is currently one of the top troop-contributing countries to UN Peacekeeping Operations. Additionally, Tanzania hosts over 237,997 refugees and asylum-seekers, the majority of whom are women and girls, fleeing instability and conflict in neighboring countries.

Recognizing the crucial role that women and girls play in conflict prevention and peacebuilding, the implementation of United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1325 on Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) and subsequent resolutions is essential for conflict prevention and building sustainable peace. The development of National Action Plans on Women, Peace, and Security is key to advancing this agenda.

In Tanzania, UN Women is collaborating with the Ministry of Community Development, Gender, Women, and Special Groups (MCDGWSG) in Tanzania Mainland and the Ministry of Community Development, Gender, Elderly, and Children (MCDGEC) in Zanzibar to develop the country’s first National Action Plan (TNAP) on UNSCR 1325, led by these Ministries. Aligning with national, regional and international relevant frameworks, the TNAP on UNSCR 1325 will supports Tanzanian women’s meaningful participation, influence, and leadership in preventing conflict and sustaining peace at all levels, including in decision-making structures, relief and recovery efforts, as well as in peace and security processes and mechanisms, while Regionally, strengthening Tanzania’s role as a leader in international and regional peacekeeping missions, humanitarian efforts, and broader peace and security efforts.

To advance women’s participation in peace and security processes, UN Women works with the Tanzania People’s Defence Force and the Peacekeeping Training Center to strengthen women’s representation and leadership in the military and peacekeeping operations. It also works closely with the Tanzania Police Force to advance gender-responsive community policing, and with other key sectors such as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East Africa Community to enhance the participation and leadership of women in diplomacy and international cooperation, while UN Women continue supporting the key role of women and young women peacebuilders at community level.

Through these efforts, Tanzania continues to demonstrate its commitment to peace and security, ensuring that women and girls are integral to the process.