Source: Tanzania Daily News 
ACTIVISTS in Zanzibar have urged the media to encourage women participate in politics and get ready to be voted into government during the next general election.

Activists from Ulingo Platform, Jumuia ya Wanawake Wenye Ulemavu Zanzibar (JUWAUZA) -- an organization for disabled women of Zanzibar, Gender Coalition, and TAMWA said that low representation of women in all decision making groups at all levels frustrates them in fighting for their rights.

Dr Ave Maria Semakafu --Tanzania Women Cross Party (TWCP) -- Ulingo Platform, Ms Asha Aboud- Gender Coalition, Ms Mzuri Issa-TAMWA, and Ms Mwandawa Khamis-JUWAUZA joined together in asking media to help awaken women.

"Journalists and the media have a big role to play in educating and encouraging women to be active in their respective political parties, and contest for various positions," said Dr Semakafu.

She was speaking during a capacity building workshop organized by Tanzania Media Women Association (TAMWA) with funding from UN-Women, for journalists in Zanzibar for the upcoming general election.

She said that despite efforts to get women into politics since 2010, low women representation still remains a challenge. The media have a critical role in getting more women into politics and leadership positions by promoting and protecting their interests.

Ms Aboud, Ms Khamis and Ms Issa informed journalists that most women including those with disabilities in the country are now educated and capable to lead, but they cannot withstand the pressure and acrimony in politics especially in positions that require campaigning and voting.

The activists said media have the power to protect and promote women empowerment for national development especially representation in decision making groups. Many women are planning to contest in the coming general elections.

• Tanzania