Protecting Youth in Tanzania

Violence against women and girls remains one of the most widespread human rights violations, undermining equality and development worldwide. In Tanzania, about one in three women and girls experiences physical, sexual, or other forms of abuse. Harmful practices such as FGM and child marriage still persist, and even with legal frameworks in place, discriminatory norms and social barriers continue to limit women’s rights and safety.

Against this backdrop, the Blue Cross Society of Tanzania (BCST) implemented the 16 Days of Activism 2025 campaign under the theme “Towards Beijing +30: Unite to End Digital Violence against Women and Girls.” The campaign emphasized that digital violence is not separate from “real life” abuse - it is a powerful extension of long-standing gender-based violence, amplified by technology, anonymity, and weak regulation.

BCST carried out awareness activities in key youth spaces and online communities, including Volcano College, Focus Academy, Elimu Yetu Development, the BCST social media family, and the Institute of Accountancy in Arusha. Through interactive sessions, young people learned how digital violence happens - cyberbullying, sextortion, harassment, non-consensual image sharing - and how to stay safe online, respect consent, and use reporting and support systems confidently. Mental health impacts such as anxiety, social withdrawal, and reduced self-esteem were also openly discussed.

Debates, songs, spoken-word performances, and drama helped participants connect the issue to everyday life. Personal testimonies revealed how girls in particular face intense online harassment and how many cases go unreported, highlighting the urgent need for stronger protection in schools and communities. BCST reinforced these messages through social media posts, infographics, videos, and campaign hashtags.

The key takeaway is clear: ending digital violence requires collective action - education for all genders, stronger laws and accountability, gender-sensitive platform design, supportive learning environments, and empowered girls and women who can use digital spaces without fear. BCST remains committed to advancing this work so that every woman and girl can live, learn, and lead safely - online and offline.