Program summary: “Breaking Chains, Building Dreams” aims to combat child sexual violence and early marriages in Shinyanga and Mwanza regions of Tanzania, where alarming statistics indicate high rates of violence and early pregnancies. The project focuses on empowering adolescent girls, including those with disabilities, to protect themselves and become agents of change.

The regions of Shinyanga and Mwanza face disturbing rates of child sexual violence and early marriages. Shinyanga reports the highest rates of child pregnancies at 34% and sexual violence at 59%, with over 500 girls dropping out of school annually. Mwanza also faces a 37% prevalence of child sexual violence, especially in rural areas like Misungwi, Nyida, and Didia. Additionally, 61% of women aged 20-24 with no education and 39% with primary education were married by age 18, compared to just 5% of women with secondary education or higher.

Despite ongoing efforts by the Government of Tanzania and partners such as UN Women, there remains a critical gap in implementing strategies to combat violence against women and children (VAWC) in these vulnerable regions. VET’s project is specifically designed to fill this gap and contribute to the implementation of Tanzania’s second National Plan of Action (NPA) to eliminate violence against women and children.

Program Objectives:

1. Empower 1,540 adolescent girls (including 590 with disabilities) through improved resources, skills, and capacities to protect themselves from violence and prevent VAW/G (Violence Against Women and Girls).
2. Engage 200 duty bearers (local authorities, teachers, police, journalists, etc.) in advocacy and training to support efforts to prevent VAW/G.
3. Strengthen primary prevention of child sexual abuse and forced marriage through accountability efforts and community engagement.
4. Establish a supportive environment where girls can thrive, with a focus on inclusive spaces for girls with disabilities.

Expected Outcomes:

• 1,540 adolescent girls (including 590 with disabilities) are empowered to protect themselves from violence and advocate for the prevention of VAW/G.
• Strengthened prevention of child sexual abuse and forced marriage through advocacy and community engagement.
• 200 duty bearers receive training and accountability support for implementing anti-violence measures.
• Increased awareness and understanding of girls’ rights, violence prevention, and gender equality within the community.

Program Duration and Budget:

• Duration: 4 years
• Budget: $249,183.00
• Target Audience: 1,540 adolescent girls (950 without disabilities, 590 with disabilities) and 200 duty bearers.

Funder/Donor:

• United Nations Women Trust Fund (UNTF)