The IITA Eastern African Hub (EAH) celebrated International Women’s Day (IWD) on 8 March with a blend of virtual and physical events. All staff gathered in the atrium to join the online session from the headquarters, kicking off the day’s celebrations.
Head of IITA People and Culture Lilian Mendoza opened the event virtually, introducing the global theme for the year: “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress.” She highlighted the increasing presence of women in various roles worldwide, emphasizing the day’s significance in honoring and celebrating their achievements.
Representing the IITA Director General, Simeon Ehui, Deputy Director General, Partnerships for Delivery, Kenton Dashiell, commended the progress of women in leadership, citing the example of Tanzania’s President, Hon. Samia Suluhu Hassan, who is also IITA’s ambassador for Eastern Africa. He reiterated IITA’s commitment to empowering women within the organization.
Following the online session, the EAH participants continued their celebrations with a physical and virtual event moderated by IITA Gender Research Specialist Millicent Liani. Giving the opening remarks on behalf of EAH Director Leena Tripathi, Head of Advocacy and Resource Mobilization Regina Kapinga shared her career journey, highlighting the importance of passion and balance between work and family.
A video presentation showcased pledges by IITA EAH staff for IWD, followed by Zainabu Muhidini, an accountant at IITA Dar es Salaam, who shared practical tips for achieving work-life balance. A panel discussion on the role of allyship from men in advancing gender equality featured ILRI Program Leader on Sustainable Livestock Systems, Dr Anthony Whitbread, who emphasized the need to support women across various dimensions and foster diversity and inclusion.
“As men leaders and scientists, we should focus on sharing knowledge and opportunities rather than hoarding them. We should support women at various stages of their careers, including interns, PhD students, and mid-career level staff,” he said.
Head of Finance and Administration, Jacqueline Musiimenta, highlighted existing policies supporting gender equality, including paid maternity leave and reduced work hours for some months after birth. She also shared plans for establishing a nursing room at the Dar es Salaam station to create a comfortable environment for staff with nursing needs.
The participants appreciated the organizing committee and commended senior women researchers for their contributions to the agriculture sector.
Contributed by Ochuwa Favour Daramola
Contributed by
Recent stories