COMMUNIQUÉ : AWLN High-Level Solidarity Mission to the United Republic of Tanzania19-21 April 2026

At the invitation of Her Excellency Samia Suluhu Hassan, President of the United Republic of Tanzania, two Elders of the  African Women Leaders Network (AWLN) visited Tanzania from 19 -21 April. The delegation was composed of the Patron, former President of the Republic of Liberia, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and former President of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, H.E. Sahle-Work Zewde, accompanied by the Executive Director, Ms. Joyce Mends-Cole. AWLN is a mobilizing platform and movement dedicated to the promotion of women's leadership for transformation and peace. 

The invitation came in response to the concerns raised earlier by AWLN after the killings of people, particularly youth, protesting the conduct of elections on Election Day, 29 October 2025 and the devastating social and economic  impact in the aftermath.

AWLN first wishes to express its gratitude for the courtesies extended and the full access given for discussions with relevant groups and persons, culminating in a meeting with H.E. Suluhu Hassan, some of her key staff and other government officials.

During the time spent in-country, the delegation was able to gain a first-hand understanding of the complexities of the current political and social situation, due to the helpful and insightful discussions. Four key issues were recurring themes requiring continuing dialogue:

Accountability, Justice, Healing and a restoration of Social Cohesion and the Constitutional reform process. Many of the groups with which we met, which included women’s groups and civil society organizations, political parties, religious leaders, also expressed hope that the report of the Commission of Inquiry,  to be issued tomorrow, would address the above issues and others, helping the President with a clear path to reconciliation and renewed resilience.

During the meeting with Her Excellency, the delegation noted the important contributions of Tanzania and its people to the African Continent. The delegation then informed her of their discussions and advised her that AWLN stands ready for continued dialogue and support in whichever ways are deemed appropriate.