From right: Ms Monica Hangi, TMA’s Regional Director for East and Central Africa, and Ms Mwajuma Hamza, Executive Director of TWCC, sign the $1 million (TZS 2.59 billion) grant from TradeMark Africa (TMA) to enhance regional market access for women traders in Tanzania
- TWCC secures $ 1 Million (Tzs 2.59billion) from TradeMark Africa to propel Tanzania women traders into regional and international markets.
Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania, 06 June 2024: The Tanzania Women Chamber of Commerce (TWCC) has secured a $1 million (TZS 2.59 billion) grant from TradeMark Africa (TMA) to enhance regional market access for women traders in Tanzania. This support will focus on product certification, raising awareness of trading opportunities and regulations, and promoting the adoption of digital technologies for trading, which are essential for catalysing their economic growth. This initiative is funded by UK International Development, Norway, and Ireland
The initiative stems from a recent “Women in Trade in Tanzania” study, conducted by TMA, revealed that women and youth in Tanzania face significant barriers to accessing and participating in trade, particularly international trade. These challenges include gender-based constraints, limited awareness of market requirements for exports, lack of market information and linkages, limited awareness of available trading opportunities like the Simplified Trade Regimes (STRs), constraints in value addition, challenge in accessing financial capital and inadequate business management skills. The grant agreement marks a significant milestone in efforts to economically empower women traders in Tanzania, providing them with the necessary tools, resources, and support to thrive in both regional and international markets.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Ms Monica Hangi, TMA’s Regional Director for East and Central Africa, stated, “Empowering women traders is essential for sustainable economic growth. Our partnership with TWCC reflects our commitment to creating an inclusive trade environment where women can thrive. We believe that by addressing the challenges they face, we can unlock tremendous potential and drive economic prosperity in Tanzania.”
Ms. Hangi further disclosed that the strategic partnership will open new opportunities for thousands of women in Tanzania, ensuring they have the tools, knowledge, and support needed to thrive in regional and international markets.
Ms. Mwajuma Hamza, Executive Director of TWCC, commented, “TWCC is dedicated to supporting women entrepreneurs and traders by providing them with the resources, networks, and opportunities they need to succeed. Today’s agreement with TMA will amplify these efforts and bring about transformative changes for women traders across the country. By collaborating with TradeMark Africa, we will leverage their expertise and resources to provide the support and opportunities our members need to succeed. Together, we can create a more equitable and vibrant trading environment for all women traders.’’
Recent studies underscore the critical role of women in trade and the need for targeted interventions to support their growth. The “Women in Trade in Tanzania” study by TMA revealed that women-owned businesses contribute significantly to the country’s GDP but face systemic challenges that limit their potential. The study recommended measures such as improved access to finance, enhanced market linkages, and targeted capacity-building programmes. In response to these findings, the TMA-TWCC partnership will enhance market access opportunities, promote capacity building and training of over 8,000 women traders on the rules and regulations of regional trading, supporting them in accessing regional markets such as the East African Community (EAC) and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Additionally, the partnership will advocate for women in trade, address gender-based constraints, promote active participation in public procurement and economic forums, and support the certification and formalization of products traded by women, ensuring they meet quality standards and gain better market access. Mentorship programs will also be facilitated to link women traders with experienced mentors who can guide their business growth.
This partnership signifies a strong commitment to enhancing the economic status of women traders in Tanzania, fostering a more inclusive and prosperous economic environment. It is a crucial step towards breaking down barriers that limit women’s participation in trade and ensuring their full economic empowerment.
Download file-ENDS-
For more press inquiries, please contact:
Theresia Kessy
Communications Officer, TWCC
Email: theresia.kessy@twcc-tz.org
Cellphone: +255 715 039 009
Sylviah Luseno
Snr. Communications Manager, TradeMark Africa
Email: sylviah.luseno@trademarkafrica.com
Cellphone: +254 780 450 703
About Tanzania Women Chambers Conference
The Tanzania Women Chamber of Commerce (TWCC) – www.twcc-tz.org stands as a pivotal organization, uniting various women, and youth entrepreneurs across Tanzania. Established in December 2005, TWCC serves as an apex and umbrella entity, encompassing sectoral Businesswomen Associations, Companies, Cooperatives, Groups, and Sole proprietors. Currently boasting a membership exceeding 12,000, TWCC’s reach extends to over 1 million women from all sectors of the economy, spanning 27 Regional Chapters in Tanzania Mainland and Zanzibar, along with 14 Women Sectoral Associations, and 11 Platforms catering to women in Cross Border Trade.
TWCC’s primary objective lies in fostering unity among women and youth entrepreneurs, including those in the informal sector, to promote business formalization and growth. Through robust capacity-building initiatives and mentorship programs, TWCC endeavours to alleviate poverty among women by equipping them with the necessary skills and resources for success. Moreover, TWCC collaborates closely with both private and public sector entities to advocate for favourable policies conducive to the flourishing of women-owned enterprises.
