“Our time in Tanzania strengthened my belief that in order to right the inequalities that women experience both home and away, we cannot work in isolation. By becoming aware of the issues that some of us face, by educating ourselves and each other on the issues and resources available, by lobbying for change to policy and for extra resources, and by supporting those who need support, we can develop a global community response to women's issues.”
--Jo Lambe, Open Door Network, Tralee
“Meeting nearly a dozen Tanzanian women's development groups and exchanging ideas about our work, including the similarities and differences, was a fascinating and inspirational experience, motivating me to work alongside other women to challenge the inequalities we face and celebrate the diverse and wonderful lives we lead as women in a global society.”
--Aoife Cooke, Tallaght Intercultural Action,
Dublin
“While participating in a course on Women, Leadership and Social Change in Tuam, Galway, I participated in a workshop with Mary Rusimbi, director of the Tanzania Gender Networking Programme (TGNP), and was very impressed by her skill, attitude and vision. I wanted to learn more and meet some of the women I had heard about from Mary and so I applied to take part in the Exchange in Tanzania.”
--Sarah Oates, Tuam Community Development
Resource Centre, Co. Galway
“The exchange with Tanzania renewed my vision for women’s development and highlighted the attitudes and prejudices that might not be so visible in modern Ireland but that still exist once we scrape the surface. I particularly valued the opportunity to meet with women’s groups in Dar es Salaam, Mwanza and Zanzibar. The meetings confirmed what I know to be true of women: how well we work together and how we work for the good of all despite the obstacles and barriers in our way. It renewed my respect for women.“
--Breda Murphy, Waterford Women’s Centre
“Awareness-raising has been an immediate outcome of the exchange with Tanzania. I have given talks and shown images to several groups, staff members and management. The more people we can introduce to development issues, the more we can be the critical voice that challenges people to think about these issues and that also raises support for our sisters, the women of Africa.”
--Sarah-Beth Watkins, Templeshannon CDP, Co.
Wexford
“The individual and collective stories of women, setting up their own small enterprises, walking for miles to attend classes, gathering in community centres and making changes happen in their communities, despite huge obstacles, will continue to be an inspiration for those of us who were lucky enough to meet them. In spite of our differences, we have so much in common.”
--Niamh Farren, Aontas
