Paza Sauti+ Project Training Launched in Kahama to Strengthen GBV and VAC Response

Tanzania Health Promotion Support (THPS), in collaboration with the Government Chemist Laboratory Authority (GCLA) and with financial support from Sanlam Allianz Life Insurance Tanzania, has officially launched the Paza Sauti+ Project trainings in Kahama, Shinyanga Region. The initiative marks a significant step in strengthening the prevention and response to gender-based violence (GBV) and violence against children (VAC) through enhanced community engagement and improved use of forensic evidence. The training, running from 5 to 8 May 2026, has brought together frontline healthcare providers, Community Health Workers (CHWs), police gender desk officers, social welfare officers, and other community actors. Participants are being equipped with practical skills in early identification of cases, timely reporting, proper forensic evidence collection and management, and the delivery of quality, survivor-centred services.

The Paza Sauti+ Project— “Paza Sauti” meaning “Speak Out Loud”—aims to empower communities to report GBV and VAC cases while strengthening institutional systems to respond effectively and ensure survivors access justice and care. Strengthening Systems Through Partnership Speaking during the official launch, Acting Kahama Municipal Director, Stephen Magalla, underscored the importance of collaboration in addressing GBV and VAC.

“This partnership reflects the coordinated response we need to address GBV and VAC in our communities. Strengthening forensic systems and building the capacity of our healthcare workers will significantly improve how we support survivors and ensure timely access to justice.” Echoing this, THPS Project Coordinator for Paza Sauti+ Project, Agnes Kirato, emphasized the project’s dual focus on systems strengthening and community empowerment.

“Paza Sauti+ is about giving survivors a voice while ensuring that the systems meant to support them are responsive, coordinated, and effective. By strengthening forensic evidence management and building capacity across sectors, we are addressing critical gaps that have long affected access to justice.” Bridging Critical Gaps in Forensic Evidence Management For many years, challenges in forensic evidence collection, documentation and utilization have limited the successful prosecution of GBV and VAC cases. The Paza Sauti+ Project directly responds to these gaps by building technical capacity among frontline health providers and raising awareness on the importance of early reporting. GCLA Senior Legal Officer and lead facilitator, ASP Mohamed Mdemu, highlighted the critical role of forensic evidence.

“Forensic evidence is central to ensuring justice for survivors. When properly collected, preserved and presented, it strengthens cases and improves conviction rates. The training will equip frontline health providers with the knowledge and skills needed to handle evidence with the required standards.” Similarly, Kahama OC-CID, SP Maro Kenyunko, noted the importance of stronger collaboration between sectors.

“Effective handling of GBV and VAC cases requires close coordination between health facilities, law enforcement and social welfare services. Strengthening forensic evidence systems will greatly improve investigation processes and support successful prosecution.” Improving Service Delivery for Survivors The trainings are also focused on improving the quality of care provided to survivors, ensuring services are timely, respectful and responsive to their needs. Kahama District Medical Officer, Dr. Baraka Msumi, highlighted the importance of strengthening the health system’s role.

“Healthcare providers are often the first point of contact for survivors. Strengthening their capacity to identify cases, provide appropriate care and collect forensic evidence is essential for both the well-being of survivors and the pursuit of justice.” At the community level, the project is reinforcing the role of CHWs and local actors in identifying cases early and linking survivors to services without delay. Private Sector Commitment to Social Impact The project is funded by Sanlam Allianz Life Insurance Tanzania as part of its corporate social responsibility efforts.

Speaking through a press release, Chief Executive Officer, Julius Magabe, reaffirmed the company’s commitment: “We are proud to support the Paza Sauti+ Project as part of our contribution to addressing GBV and VAC. As an organization dedicated to protecting lives, we recognize the importance of supporting initiatives that safeguard the dignity, safety and well-being of communities.” A Coordinated Approach for Sustainable Impact The project is being implemented in Kahama Municipal Council, specifically at Kahama District Hospital and Nyasubi Health Centre, covering Nyasubi and Malunga wards. It aligns with national priorities, including the National Plan of Action to End Violence Against Women and Children (NPA-VAWC II). By strengthening both institutional systems and community engagement, the Paza Sauti+ Project is contributing to a more coordinated and effective response to GBV and VAC.

As the training continue through the week, stakeholders remain optimistic that the knowledge and skills gained will translate into improved service delivery, stronger evidence systems and better outcomes for GBV and VAC survivors. Through initiatives like Paza Sauti+, THPS and its partners are working to ensure that survivors are not only heard—but also supported with timely, high-quality services that promote healing and access to justice.