Mimi na Mazingira Yangu – Komesha Ukatili wa Kijinsia Project
The Mimi na Mazingira Yangu – Komesha Ukatili wa Kijinsia Project is an innovative initiative implemented by CTA with the support from Ireland Embassy in Tanzania. A one-year project aims to empower women, youth and promote environmental sustainability in Nanyumbu District, Mtwara Region. The project focuses on women, youth and men who were once unable to read or write, equipping them with literacy, numeracy, and practical green skills that enable them to transform waste materials particularly groundnuts and Sesame waste into alternative cooking energy.
Through this initiative, beneficiaries not only contribute to environmental protection by reducing deforestation and promoting clean energy, but they also earn income from the sale of the energy products they produce. This transformation has restored their confidence, dignity, and respect within their communities especially among those who once looked down on them for their lack of education.
The initiative also fosters gender equality and restores women’s dignity by building their confidence, enhancing their participation in community decision-making, and challenging harmful gender norms. Through education and empowerment, the project strengthens community awareness and collective action to end gender-based violence and protect women’s rights.
So far, the Mimi na Mazingira Yangu – Komesha Ukatili wa Kijinsia Project has approximately reached over 200 women and 150 men across Nanyumbu District. The initiative’s success has inspired widespread community demand, with more than 10 wards requesting that the education and training be extended to their areas.
The project has also revived three previously dormant literacy centres, now actively serving 53 women and 13 men who resumed their studies after being motivated by the achievements of neighboring centres that participated in the project. These outcomes highlight a growing community-led movement for learning, environmental action, and women’s empowerment driven by the transformative impact of the project.
During the recent International Literacy Day, the Divisional Officer commended the initiative and directed all 19 village leaders from four (4) wards to take the project further within their respective communities, recognizing its transformative impact. In addition, the Community Development Officer for Nanyumbu District welcomed project groups from the four participating wards to apply for district loan support starting next year, as a way of strengthening their economic sustainability and expanding their green enterprises.
These milestones demonstrate a strong sense of community ownership, local government support, and growing momentum towards women’s and youth empowerment, literacy advancement, and environmental sustainability.
