MWE Correspondent
Lawmakers in Tanzania have raised strong concerns over the rise in sexual violence, moral erosion, and the lack of public understanding of basic nutrition during an intense parliamentary session in Dodoma.
The debate followed the presentation of the 2025/2026 national budget for the Ministry of Community Development, Gender, Women and Special Groups, delivered by Minister Dr. Dorothy Gwajima. She requested an allocation of TSh 76.05 billion (approximately USD 29 million) to implement key social development programs across the country.
Crackdown on Rape and Sodomy Urged
Dr. Tea Ntala, a Special Seats Member of Parliament representing university students, took a firm stance, calling for stringent legal measures against perpetrators of rape and sodomy. She argued that unless the government enforces stronger punishments, such crimes will continue to plague communities.
“We cannot tolerate these barbaric acts. Laws must be strengthened, and enforcement intensified to ensure justice for victims,” Ntala emphasized in Parliament.
Her remarks follow a growing public outcry over high-profile sexual assault cases, many of which have gone unpunished due to weak legal enforcement or social stigma.
Push for Public Nutrition Awareness
Nominated MP Shukrani Manya raised a different but equally critical issue—malnutrition and the general lack of knowledge about healthy eating. He emphasized that many Tanzanians are unaware of the health benefits of traditional foods such as millet, cassava, and sweet potatoes, which are often replaced with less nutritious processed foods.
“We need an urgent nationwide campaign to promote nutritional education—especially around our indigenous foods that are affordable and healthy,” Manya told lawmakers.
He called on the Ministry to partner with schools and health centers to create engaging educational materials that could empower families to make better dietary choices.
Also Read; Growing Concern Over Declining Morals
Returning to the chamber, Dr. Ntala also lamented what she described as “a moral crisis” in the country. She cited increasing public behavior that undermines traditional social values and ethical standards.
“If necessary, the government should arrest individuals who deliberately violate our moral codes,” she declared, stressing that no society can develop without a strong ethical backbone.
Her sentiment was echoed by several MPs, including Esther Matiko from Tarime, who warned that while laws against sexual abuse exist, enforcement remains weak. She cited recent rape cases from various regions to support her claim.
Ministry Responds as Budget Debate Continues
Minister Gwajima assured Parliament that her ministry is committed to addressing these pressing concerns through both legislative reform and community engagement. She mentioned that efforts are underway to collaborate with the Ministry of Education and local government bodies to develop inclusive programs focusing on gender equality, child protection, and community values.
The parliamentary session will continue through the week, as legislators debate allocations for other social sectors. Meanwhile, Tanzanians across the country await policy action on the critical issues raised.
