Women Human Rights Defenders Should Embrace Collective Action

Human Rights Defenders: A Call for Unity Over Personal Gains

Dar es Salaam, March 7, 2025

The National Coordinator of the Tanzania Human Rights Defenders Coalition (THRDC), Advocate Onesmo Olengurumwa, has stated that while the country recognizes the invaluable contributions of women in the human rights sector, many of them are entering the field for employment opportunities rather than as a calling.

In a press briefing held today in Dar es Salaam, Olengurumwa pointed out that although women such as Getrude Mongela, Mary Lusimbi, and Anna Tibaijuka had shown genuine dedication in fighting for human rights, current human rights defenders, especially women, seem to lack patience and commitment in their roles. They are also less collaborative compared to previous generations of female activists.

“In the past, women used to meet and discuss national agendas together, fostering unity in the fight for human rights. Today, however, every defender is focused on their personal cause,” Olengurumwa remarked. He added that defenders today view human rights advocacy as just a job, each focusing on their own niche—whether it be children’s rights, women’s rights, or other issues—without the collective spirit that once prevailed.

"Today’s human rights defenders see their work as employment. They lack the patience that was once evident. In the past, our mothers united to discuss matters concerning women, children, democracy, land, and the economy—efforts that strengthened the human rights movement," said Advocate Olengurumwa.

As the world prepares to mark International Women's Day, Olengurumwa reflected on the significant role women played in Tanzania’s liberation struggle. He highlighted the contributions of figures such as Bibi Titi Mohamed, who worked alongside Julius Nyerere to educate the public on the importance of independence without resorting to war.

“Women led our country’s liberation efforts. For example, Bibi Titi helped organize mobilization meetings with Mwalimu Nyerere, educating the public about the importance of independence. Yet, history has often overlooked women’s contributions to human rights advocacy,” Olengurumwa noted.

He emphasized that if women are given equal opportunities—especially those denied by systems and historical structures—they can become significant contributors to the nation’s development. He pointed to the 1995 Beijing Conference, where many Tanzanian women participated and proposed 12 resolutions aimed at promoting human rights, particularly for women.

Olengurumwa concluded by urging human rights defenders, particularly women, to return to a foundation of unity and collaboration, rather than working for personal gain.

“Human rights defenders should work in solidarity, not for personal interests. If someone is looking for a job or a high salary, they should seek employment in banking or other sectors,” Olengurumwa advised.