Dar es Salaam. A senior journalist with The Chanzo, Jackline Kuwanda, has been named among Tanzania’s 2025 Champions Against Gender-Based Violence, becoming one of 16 individuals nationally recognized for their outstanding contribution to combating gender-based violence (GBV).
Kuwanda, who is based in Dodoma, was announced as the first recipient during the award ceremony, underscoring the impact of her long-standing work in amplifying the voices of marginalized communities and advocating for social justice through journalism.
The award was received on her behalf by The Chanzo’s representative, Swahiba Nuru, and was presented by Susan Ngongi Namondo, the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Tanzania.
The awards are organized by WiLDAF in collaboration with other stakeholders working to end gender-based violence. They are presented at a major national event dedicated to celebrating champions whose initiatives have transformed public narratives and driven meaningful action toward eradicating GBV in Tanzania.
“This ceremony recognizes individuals whose unwavering commitment, innovation, and leadership have contributed significantly to building safer, more just, and inclusive communities,” organizers said.
READ MORE: The Chanzo Scoops Several Journalism Awards in July 2023
While reading a citation of Kuwanda’s achievements, master of ceremonies Taji Liundi praised her dedication:
“You have proven to be a true champion against gender-based violence. You have stood on behalf of those who often have no chance to be heard. Today, we celebrate you — please receive our applause and our flowers.”
For many years, Kuwanda has reported extensively on social issues, particularly focusing on citizens living on the margins in Tanzania’s central regions and beyond. Through both The Chanzo media and her social media platforms, she has consistently highlighted cases of gender-based violence and advocated for accountability and reform.
Other awardees include Asha D. Abinallah (champion against online gender violence), Josephy Kalonda (champion for disability rights), Debora Mwageni (champion for domestic workers’ rights), Clara Tlaghasi Malle (GBV survivor and anti-GBV champion), Evans Melkion Tegete (champion for children’s rights), Sudi Saidi (champion against child marriage), Padre John Nkinga Luhanya (faith-based anti-GBV champion), Sheikh Ali Omari Mkomwa (faith-based anti-GBV champion), Imelda Florence Mtema (broadcaster and activist), and Kulwa Jeremiah Daniel (anti-GBV champion), among others.
Speaking at the ceremony held at the Cardinal Rugambwa Hall in Dar es Salaam, WiLDAF Executive Director Anna Kulaya said gender-based violence remains a serious challenge affecting all segments of society.
“In our communities, there are ordinary Tanzanians who have volunteered themselves and raised their voices to speak out about gender-based violence,” Kulaya said. “As WiLDAF, in collaboration with our partners, we recognize these efforts, even for those who may not have a public platform, and that is the purpose of these awards.”
