Source:TanzaniaDailyNews
A NON-GOVERNMENTAL Organisation (NGO), HelpAge International, has embarked on a two-year project with the aim of promoting older women's rights to be implemented in Magu District, Mwanza Region.

HelpAge International Rights Programme Manager, Mr Joseph Mbasha said in a press statement released in Dar es Salaam on Thursday that the programme will work at community level to improve awareness on old people particularly women.

"It (the programme) will mobilise and train community volunteer paralegals, elderly women spokespersons and support old people's associations that will work with the local government authorities," he said.

Mr Mbasha pointed out other key partners in the project as leaders, influential individuals and law enforcement bodies to provide legal advice, counselling and referral while ensuring victims access justice. "HelpAge will also partner with Magu Poverty Eradication Rehabilitation Centre (MAPERECE) to implement the project," he said.

He noted that HelpAge International helps old people claim their rights, challenge discrimination and overcome poverty, so that they can lead dignified, secure, active and healthy lives.

"This proposed action will support local authorities, communities and civil society organisations to effectively promote and protect the rights of old persons in 10 villages in Magu District," said Mr Mbasha.

The project is funded by European Union under its European Instrument for Democracy and Human Rights (EIDHR) to tackle genderbased violence that affects women of all ages. The EU provides about EUR 300 million to protect older women from witchcraft related killings and violence.

Over the years, there has been increasing number of old people, particularly women, persecuted for alleged witchcraft practices. According to the Legal and Human Right Centre 765 people, 505 of which were women, have been killed due to alleged witchcraft accusations in 2013 alone.

Deep-rooted cultural practices, harmful traditions that legitimise gender-based violence and negative perceptions about ageing are among causes of such heinous acts perpetrated against old women.

At national level, the project will work with relevant central government authorities and law makers for better application of policies and laws that will protect and uphold rights of old men and women to life.

The project will collaborate with the media so as to ensure old women's rights are integrated into wider gender and human rights debate.

It is expected that the project will provide lessons that will be used to scale up and replicate approaches in various parts of the country.

• Tanzania