The Government of the Republic of Korea, through the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), in partnership with KOICA Alumni Tanzania (KOAT), has joined hands with the Ikungi District Council to host a knowledge-sharing session under the theme “Advancing Gender-Based Violence Prevention and Strengthening Survivor Support through One-Stop Centres.”

This collaborative initiative underscores the commitment of KOICA, KOAT, and the Government of Tanzania to advance gender equality, strengthen support systems for survivors of violence, and foster sustainable social development in underserved communities.

The event brought together district officials, local leaders, community members, and implementing partners to share insights, exchange best practices, and pledge action toward improving gender-based violence (GBV) prevention and survivor support mechanisms, while also raising awareness at the grassroots level.

KOICA Country Director Manshik Shin emphasized that capacity building remains central to KOICA’s mission. “More than 2,000 Tanzanian officials have benefited from KOICA’s training programmes in Korea, including Master’s and Ph.D. degrees,” he noted. 

He also highlighted the significance of the project “Realizing Gender Equality in Tanzania through Empowering Women and Adolescent Girls in Shinyanga and Singida” (2020–2023), implemented with UNFPA and UN Women.

Through this initiative, KOICA has supported agricultural training, improved land ownership security, strengthened public officials and community capacity to prevent and respond to GBV, and facilitated the establishment of One-Stop Centres and police Gender & Children Desks.

Visiting Singida for the first time, the Country Director expressed satisfaction at witnessing the progress of these efforts at the community level. He said he hoped the programme will continue to empower women and girls, expand their economic rights, reduce GBV, and foster a more inclusive society. 

He also expressed gratitude to KOAT, UNFPA, UN Women, and local government leaders—particularly the Singida District Commissioner—for their unwavering support in implementing and sustaining the initiatives.

The Capacity Improvement and Advancement for Tomorrow (CIAT) programme, KOICA’s flagship fellowship, equips government officials with knowledge and skills to enhance governance. KOAT, established in 2003, is an association of CIAT graduates committed to community development and social impact. 

Working closely with KOICA, KOAT plays an active role in grassroots GBV prevention and survivor support, particularly by strengthening One-Stop Centres and increasing community awareness.

This knowledge-sharing event marks another step forward in KOICA’s mission to promote inclusive growth and ensure that no woman or girl is left behind in accessing timely, compassionate, and comprehensive services—paving the way for a safer and more equitable future.