UNFPA Hosts Finnish Young Parliamentarians to Strengthen Partnership on Gender Equality and Disability Rights in Tanzania

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania—06 November 2024 – UNFPA, the United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency, held a dynamic meeting with young Finnish parliamentarians from the International Network of Young Parliamentarians and representatives from the Embassy of Finland, SHIVYAWATA. The dialogue highlighted the shared commitment to advancing gender equality, disability rights, and sexual and reproductive health as critical strategies for the advancement of UNFPA’s mission to ensure every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person’s potential is fulfilled.

UNFPA, the United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency, held a dynamic meeting with young Finnish parliamentarians from the International Network of Young Parliamentarians and representatives from the Embassy of Finland, SHIVYAWATA.

Through engaging presentations and discussions, participants gained insights into UNFPA's leading role in promoting health, safety, and opportunity for all—especially the most vulnerable. Additionally, the meeting celebrated Tanzania’s significant strides in championing disability rights, thanks to the partnership and concerted efforts of the Tanzanian government, Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs), the Government of Finland, and UNFPA.

A Partnership for Progress

UNFPA expressed its gratitude to the Government of Finland for its ongoing support, both politically and financially. Finland's recent Report on International Economic Relations and Development Cooperation emphasized Finland's dedication to priority areas, including sexual and reproductive health, the fight against gender-based violence, child marriage, female genital mutilation, and the protection of vulnerable groups. To this end, initiatives such as Chaguo Langu Haki Yangu—My Right My Choice (2021-2025) and the United Nations Joint Programme to Advance the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in Tanzania (2021-2024) showcase how funding from the people of Finland is used to creating an inclusive, equitable environment for all.

"Our partnership with Finland exemplifies the power of collaboration for shared goals,” said Mark Bryan Schreiner, UNFPA Representative in Tanzania. “Together, we have made impactful strides in advancing disability inclusion, gender equality, and reproductive health initiatives in Tanzania, improving lives for women, girls, and persons with disabilities. We are deeply grateful for Finland’s commitment and look forward to continued progress."

Finland’s Role as a Champion on Disability Inclusion

With Finland’s support, UNFPA has made significant progress in building robust institutions, services, and community structures that empower adolescent girls and young women. Finland's investment has catalyzed meaningful disability inclusion across Tanzania, fostering greater awareness of disability rights among Tanzanian government bodies, the UN, and other development partners.

"This partnership underscores the importance of inclusive development, where every individual, regardless of ability, has access to essential services and the opportunity to live with dignity and autonomy. With Finland’s support, we are advancing the rights of persons with disabilities and ensuring their voices are part of the conversation on gender equality and health rights," said Jonas Lubago, Chairperson of SHIVYAWATA.

About UNFPA

UNFPA, the United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency, works in over 150 countries and territories to promote a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. UNFPA supports countries to achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly Goals 3 (Good Health and Well-being), 5 (Gender Equality), and 10 (Reduced Inequalities).