The project Strengthening leadership Skills of Young Women living with disabilities provides an opportunity to 30 young women with disabilities from universities to engage in political participation in the country. The project gears towards inclusive election participation of all Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) especially the youth in the upcoming local government election (2019) and the 2020 general election. This process includes providing trainings, conducting study tours, outreach, advocacy, policy reviews and developing policy briefs. This project is implemented in close collaboration with the Tanzania Parliamentarians’ Voice on Disability Rights who provide support to the project in terms of policy reviews, mentoring and providing trainers.

Ultimately, young people with disability will participate in these elections, lobby for their rights and fully participate in all spheres of life including economic, social and political hence achieving equal development in the society.

Furaha ya Wanawake Wajasiriamali kwa Viziwi Tanzania (FUWAVITA) is taking a significant step forward in empowering young women with disabilities. Their project has yielded impressive results and the organization is setting ambitious future plans to build on this success. 

The project has fostered a strong national network for young women with disabilities. Collaborations with university networks and other Voice Grantees, like VET, have allowed FUWAVITA to amplify their message. A joint roundtable discussion with members of parliament exemplifies this collaborative approach, advocating for the inclusion of young women with disabilities in decision-making structures. 

FUWAVITA’s project has demonstrably empowered young women with disabilities. The successful mentorship program paired 35 women with members of parliament and political party leaders, providing invaluable guidance and fostering political aspirations. Additionally, 30 deaf women from universities and colleges received leadership skills and democratic participation training. This training not only opened their minds to the possibility of political participation but also highlighted the importance of including Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in all aspects of society. 

FUWAVITA’s future plans center on leveraging the skills and knowledge gained by these young women to propel them into meaningful political participation. The organization will advocate for women with disabilities to hold political leaders accountable, ensuring their voices are heard. This continued support will be crucial in paving the way for a more inclusive political landscape in Tanzania. 

The project’s success is further bolstered by the establishment of a key alliance with prominent parliamentarians who champion the rights of persons with disabilities. Additionally, the partnership with Therapy Global adds another layer of support to FUWAVITA’s ongoing efforts. 

FUWAVITA’s project has demonstrably empowered young women with disabilities and their future plans hold immense promise. By fostering political participation and ensuring these women have a seat at the table, FUWAVITA is working towards a more inclusive and equitable Tanzania.