DAR ES SALAAM, April 1 -- ON paper, the progress is undeniable. More women are stepping forward to contest leadership positions, public awareness is growing and advocacy efforts are gaining momentum.

Yet beneath these visible gains lies a stubborn reality: women in Zanzibar remain significantly underrepresented in decision-making bodies, and the path to equality is far from complete.

This was the central message that emerged during the 2026 International Womens Day commemorations organised by the Tanzania Media Womens Association (TAMWA Zanzibar), where leaders, activists and community members gathered not only to celebrate achievements, but to confront the gaps that persist.

Delivering the keynote address, TAMWA Zanzibar Executive Dir...