05.11.2024

“It is Crucial to Come Together!”

During the workshop, participants discussed their work in each of their churches, where they put their focus and where they find challenges. Photo by: ELCT/NED

Facilitators Dr Mary Mbilu (5th from left) and Thea Hummel (6th from left) together with Bischop Dr Msafiri Mbilu (7th from left) and workshop participants, as well as coworkers of the Diocezan Office. Photo by: ELCT/NED

From October 23 to 25, 2024, the workshop “Empowering Women: Building Financial Skills and Strong Networks” met in Lushoto. It brought together eight women from the four member churches of the United Evangelical Mission (UEM) in Tanzania, hosted by the ELCT-NED*. The first day began with a morning devotion at the historic chapel of the diocesan office, where Bishop Dr. Msafiri Joseph Mbilu welcomed the participants to Lushoto.

The workshop was officially opened by Bishop Mbilu, who emphasized the importance of empowering women, stating, "If you empower women, you empower a society." Co-facilitator Dr. Mary Mbilu gave a presentation on the role of women in Tanzania, highlighting their significant contributions to families and communities.

Participants engaged in Bible sharing and small group discussions to share experiences and explore ways their churches can support women’s initiatives. The women shared about income-generating projects from their dioceses, such as handicrafts, farming, catering, community banking, and support for teenage mothers. However, they also discussed the challenges they face, including limited funding, lack of technical skills, and the small scale of their projects.

Expectations for the churches

The participants expressed expectations for church support, such as providing seed funding, training in management and financial literacy, and creating spaces for women to network and share success stories. They also called for the church to recognize and expand existing women’s groups and to help build international partnerships.

Thea Hummel, UEM Diversity and Inclusion Coordinator and co-facilitator of the workshop, said: "Women are the backbone of society, driving progress and supporting their communities in countless ways. It is crucial for women to come together, exchange experiences, and share ideas to strengthen each other in their unique contexts. We need more women supporting one another, learning together, and creating networks that uplift and empower everyone involved."

Women in church: Making a lasting impact

This workshop, taking place at the newly established Kolowa Technical Training Institute in Magamba, sets the stage for greater collaboration and support, equipping these women with the skills and networks needed to make a lasting impact in their communities.

*ELCT/NED = Evangelical Lutheran Church of Tanzania, North Eastern Diocese