Theatre Arts Feminists (TAF) is a feminist, youth-led organization based in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Established by passionate young women leaders, TAF uses theatre, art, and creative storytelling as transformative tools to advocate for gender equality, end Gender-Based Violence (GBV), promote Sexual and Reproductive Health(SRH), and protect children. By combining performance arts with community dialogue, TAF provides safe spaces for women, girls, and marginalized groups to voice their stories, challenge harmful norms, and inspire social change.
Thematic Areas
Combating Gender-based Violence (GBV)
At TAF, we recognize Gender-Based Violence as a violation of human rights and a severe form of discrimination. GBV includes physical, sexual, psychological, and economic harm that disproportionately affects women and children but also impacts families and entire communities. Our work addresses violence against women, men, and children, ensuring that all individuals live free from fear and harm.
Promoting Sexual and Reproductive Health(SRH)
We strive for a society where human rights related to sexual and reproductive health are safeguarded. Every individual deserves access to quality, affordable, and accurate SRH information and services. TAF integrates theatre-based strategies to educate and empower young people, particularly girls and women, on family planning, menstrual health, and the prevention of early pregnancies and STIs.
Child Protection and Rights
TAF is dedicated to ensuring the safety, well-being, and rights of children by using theatre to educate communities on child protection laws and the importance of safeguarding children’s rights. Our performances and awareness campaigns highlight issues such as child abuse, neglect, exploitation, and child marriage, empowering children and communities to stand up against injustices and create a safer environment for all children.
Current measurable Metrics (Number reached and Key Achievements)
Throughout 2024 and Up to date, Theatre Arts Feminists (TAF) achieved significant milestones in advancing gender equality, combating Gender-Based Violence (GBV), and promoting Sexual and Reproductive Health(SRH) through theatre-based education, community engagement, and capacity-building programs. The following are the results and impact achieved during the year.
- Conducted Seven mojor theatre performances focused on raising awareness about GBV and women’s rights in urban and rural communities, leading to increased understanding of critical issues such as domestic violence, sexual harassment, and early and forced marriages.
- Over 2,000 students from primary and secondary schools participated in performances that focused on child protection and education, resulting in a notable increase in reporting of child abuse cases among students.
- 15 young girls aged 12 to 17 were trained in artistic and entrepreneurial skills, enabling them to transition from passion-driven work to sustainable careers in theatre.
- Over 400 women and girls were impacted by advocacy initiatives facilitated by grassroots groups trained by TAF in leadership and advocacy, contributing to increased awareness and support for gender equality.
- 100+ women and youth received leadership and advocacy training, empowering them to become advocates for gender equality and women’s rights in their communities. These individuals were equipped to influence policy discussions, community organizing, and decision-making.
- 9 schools (including 5 primary and 4 secondary schools) participated in SRHR education programs, impacting hundreds of students who gained knowledge about menstrual health, family planning, HIV prevention, and bodily autonomy.
- 25 participants from local government, traditional leaders, and grassroots organizations from Dar es Salaam and Pwani regions participated in SRHR awareness workshops, strengthening community efforts to advocate for reproductive rights and reduce stigma.
- TAF’s media outreach on UFM Radio and TBC FM reached thousands of listeners, raising awareness about SRHR and GBV.
- Public theatre performances attracted over 3,000 participants, raising awareness on social justice, SRH, and GBV, while providing local artists with a platform to showcase their work.
- TAF participated in 1 policy review meeting for the Education Act, advocating for gender-sensitive policies that promote equal access to education for women and girls.
- Multiple partnerships with local governments and organizations strengthened community-level efforts to address GBV, child protection, and SRH.
Testimonial
- “Before joining Theatre Arts Feminists, I did not think my story mattered. Now, I perform to educate my community and I feel powerful doing it.”Esther Joseph, Theatre Artist, Ilala Dar es Salaam
- A youth group leader Salyath Shabani and Abdul Niwe, from Msimamo Youth Educator testified that the feminist theatre training improved their ability to use art for advocacy, enabling them to engage hundreds of women and girls on SRHR and GBV issues.
Our Future plans for the Next Four Years
Strategic Goals (2026–2030)
- Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Prevention: Using theatre arts to challenge harmful norms, raise awareness, and support GBV survivor
- Child Protection. Advocating for safe, nurturing environments for children through education and community engagement.
- Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH). Promoting access to information, menstrual hygiene, and family planning through creative, youth-friendly approaches.
- Advance Women in Leadership by mentoring girls through Theatre performance and advocacy skills.
- Strengthen Institutional Sustainability for long-term national impact.
- Strengthen digital presence by producing short feminist theatre films and podcasts to reach wider audiences.
Current Needs to Continue the Work
- Financial support for operations, theatre productions, and community dialogues.
- Technical support in Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) to better track impact.
- Partnerships and mentorships with feminist funds and theatre networks.
- Capacity-building opportunities for staff and members on feminist leadership, digital advocacy, and SRH.
- Equipment support (theatre props, sound systems, costumes, digital tools).
Links and social media handles
Instagram handle: @theatreartsfeminists
Facebook handle: @theatreartsfeminists
