Rehema's Story

Written by Paul Bettings.

Rehema is many things. She’s a 55-year-old mother of four, grandmother of five, farmer, leader in her Tanzanian community, educator and entrepreneur. But it’s her role as a fierce advocate for gender equality that most defines her life today.

In her family it was Rehema’s husband who had final say over how their children were raised. Discussion of family planning was taboo, and she lacked the education and confidence to advocate for herself. That attitude manifested in her own daughter when, years later, the teen became pregnant. Ashamed, she gave birth in a latrine and wanted to dump the baby there. But Rehema showed her daughter love and acceptance. Today, the baby is two years old and the family is doing well. However, Rehema regrets not being more proactive in talking to her daughter about sexual and reproductive health and rights.

Women who are educated about their bodies are better able to make informed decisions about their health, are more likely to promote gender equality, are better protected against diseases and unwanted pregnancy and are more likely to raise healthy families.

This knowledge led Rehema to the firm belief that children should be taught about their bodies. So she joined an ENRICH women’s support group to learn more. With the guidance of a qualified health worker, these groups provide safe, supportive spaces for women to discuss issues related to family planning, nutrition, breastfeeding and equality in the home.

Today Rehema is proud to speak up for women. She helps lead the women’s support group, advising members about family planning, promoting condom use and urging them to regularly seek health services.