Zanzibar Maisha Bora Foundation (ZMBF) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Community Development, Gender, Elderly and Children (MoCDGEC) to collaborate on key initiatives aimed at enhancing community development, gender-based violence (GBV) prevention, child protection, and reproductive health across Zanzibar. This strategic partnership underscores the shared commitment to empower vulnerable groups, promote gender equality, and strengthen community well-being.
The MoU was signed by Mrs. Fatma Fungo, CEO of ZMBF, and Abeida Rashid Abdallah, Principal Secretary of MoCDGEC. This partnership highlights the importance of multi-stakeholder collaboration in addressing social challenges and fostering sustainable community development.
Purpose and Objectives
Under this MoU, ZMBF will collaborate with MoCDGEC in the areas of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Prevention, Child Protection, Early Childhood Development, Sexual and Reproductive Health Programs (Tumaini Initiative), and Enhancing Nutrition for Women and Children in Zanzibar, with the following key objectives:
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Mitigate gender-based violence by fostering gender equality, empowering survivors, and preventing instances of GBV through rehabilitation centers.
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Develop the Zanzibar Gender-Based Violence Case Management Information System, an integrated digital system to provide information on beneficiaries, service providers, and services rendered, supporting better planning and decision-making.
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Provide comprehensive parenting education to caregivers on child development, nurturing relationships, and positive parenting techniques.
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Improve reproductive health services and reduce maternal and child mortality rates by enhancing access to comprehensive sexual and reproductive health education and resources.
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Ensure children’s safety and well-being through robust child protection mechanisms, policies, and awareness programs, effectively preventing and responding to cases of abuse, exploitation, and neglect.
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Promote nutrition education and community initiatives to improve nutritional outcomes, aiming to reduce malnutrition and stunting among children and women.
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Enhance advocacy efforts to raise awareness about key issues such as GBV, child protection, and vulnerable groups, with the goal of influencing relevant policies and engaging policymakers.
Quotes:
“This MoU marks a significant step in our journey to empower communities and protect the most vulnerable. By working together, we can create lasting change and promote the well-being of women, children, and youth in Zanzibar,” said Mrs. Fatma Fungo, CEO of ZMBF.
“The Ministry is committed to partnering with stakeholders like ZMBF to build a society where women and children are safe, healthy, and empowered to reach their full potential,” said Abeida Rashid Abdallah, Principal Secretary of MoCDGEC.
About ZMBF:
The Zanzibar Maisha Bora Foundation, chaired by the First Lady of Zanzibar, works to promote social well-being, inclusion, and empowerment in Zanzibar, with a focus on health, education, and community resilience.
About MOCDGE:
The Ministry of Health, Community Development, Gender, Elderly and Children (MOHCDGEC) in Zanzibar is responsible for the overall strategic direction, policy formulation, and legal framework for health, community development, gender equality, and the well-being of the elderly and children.