Protect Girls from FGM in Tanzania

Period: September 2025 – January 2026 Location: Mugumu & Butiama Safe Houses Organization: Hope for Girls and Women in Tanzania (HGWT)

Overview :

Between September 2025 and January 2026, Hope for Girls and Women in Tanzania intensified its lifesaving work during a critical FGM cutting season in Mara Region. With the support of our donors and partners, HGWT provided immediate protection, care, and long-term empowerment to girls fleeing Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), child marriage, and gender-based violence. December 2025 marked a peak emergency period, as two clans in Tarime District practiced FGM, forcing hundreds of girls to flee for safety. Despite extreme pressure on resources, HGWT successfully responded.

Key Achievements

• 234 girls rescued from FGM and violence within five months
• 191 girls currently sheltered in Mugumu and Butiama safe houses
• 188 girls safely reintegrated with their families after successful reconciliation
• 364 girls received psychosocial support
• 284 girls accessed regular medical checkups
• 80 yoga sessions conducted, supporting healing, mental health, and wellbeing
• Education & Empowerment 179 girls supported with education (primary, secondary, vocational, college & university) 70% of supported girls showed improved academic performance 19 girls enrolled in vocational training (beadwork, tailoring, agriculture) Beadwork products sold to Four Seasons Safari Lodge, creating income and confidence

Community Impact

• 463 community members reached through anti-FGM and GBV sensitization meetings 2,000 school children educated on GBV, FGM, and reporting mechanisms Strong collaboration with police gender desks, social welfare officers, schools, hospitals, and local leaders

A Life Changed One survivor—rescued after sexual violence—completed Form Four against all odds. Now safe at HGWT, she dreams of becoming a pilot, symbolizing freedom and hope beyond trauma. With continued donor support, her dream—and many others—can become reality.

Financial Accountability Funds received: TZS 25,421,225.51

Funds utilized: TZS 25,421,225.51 All funds were fully and transparently used for safe house operations, education support, vocational training, and community outreach.

Why Continued Support Matters FGM seasons continue to put girls at urgent risk Safe houses face overcrowding and limited resources during peak periods Education and economic empowerment are key to breaking the cycle of violence

Way Forward With your continued partnership, HGWT aims to: Prepare early for the 2026 FGM season Expand education and vocational opportunities Strengthen community prevention efforts Support survivors toward long-term independence Thank You Your support is not just providing shelter—it is saving lives, restoring dignity, and unlocking futures. Together, we are proving that girls can rise above trauma and build safe, empowered lives.