DAR ES SALAAM Regional Commissioner Albert Chalamila has advised women in the city not to stay idle but strive to make a contribution to their families and the nation even through self-employment.

Chalamila made the call yesterday in Dar es Salaam during the official launch of a programme dubbed ‘Strengthening the Economy with Mama Samia’.

“It is vital for women to tackle various problems and challenges by doing business as an opportunity for them to rise economically,” he said.

He said the programme seeks to empower women in groups through loans by ensuring that such loans go to the deserving beneficiaries.

 "Daily efforts of entrepreneurial activities are the gateway to prosperity and longevity," he said.

Chalamila said that the programme which will be implemented by councils was introduced in the region on Tuesday through Dar es Salaam Women Leaders’ Platform.

He said that in Dar es Salaam Region there are various opportunities, including vegetable, chicken farming and modern fish farming (aquaculture).

"Plans are underway for the construction of modern markets in every district as you are aware that Kariakoo Market is in the final stage to be completed and will accommodate a big number of businesswomen as well as men,” he said.

Beng`i Issa, National Economic Empowerment Council (NEEC) executive secretary,  said that the council through the programme intends to empower women, youth and special groups by encouraging them to participate in entrepreneurial activities.

“We urge Dar es Salaam authorities to set aside special economic zones so that women can process products as well as super markets that sell their products,” she said.

Issa said the council has plans to connect women with various institutions, including the Small Industries Development Organization (SIDO) as well as Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS) to obtain various technologies and permits.

Sophia Mjema, Advisor to the President on women's issues, children, and special groups, said that the problems of capital, markets and participation of Tanzanians in economic activities are the reasons for the government to enact policies, laws and guidelines to assist citizens.

"This programme of empowering women, youth and special groups will be overseen by coordinators who are at the district, council and regional levels," he said.