CODEWA Participates in Regional Capacity-Building Training on Adolescent Health, Nutrition, and Advocacy

Community Development Watch (CODEWA) was honored to participate in a three-day Capacity-Building Training for Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) on Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health (ASRH), Nutrition Education, and SMART Advocacy.
The training, held from September 3–5, 2025 at Georges Complex in Tabora Municipality, was organized by the Office of the Regional Commissioner in collaboration with Nutrition International (BRIGHT Project).

This important initiative brought together government representatives, Community Development Officers (CDOs), and selected CSOs from across the region to strengthen knowledge, improve collaboration, and enhance community-based interventions for adolescents.

Building Stronger Skills for Stronger Communities

During the training, participants—including CODEWA—received comprehensive sessions that covered:

🔹 Gender Equality Principles

Understanding the roles, barriers, and opportunities that shape adolescent girls’ and boys’ access to health, education, and nutrition services.

🔹 SMART Advocacy Approach

A practical framework designed to help organizations influence policies, mobilize communities, and drive sustainable change through evidence-based advocacy.

🔹 TAWLA Projects and Legal Perspectives

Insights from the Tanzania Women Lawyers Association (TAWLA) on protecting adolescent rights, promoting gender justice, and supporting community-level legal literacy.

These topics provided CSOs with the tools and strategies needed to improve adolescent well-being and to advocate more effectively within their communities.

Participation in this training directly supports CODEWA’s mission of empowering children and youth to learn, grow, and thrive.
It strengthens our capacity to:

• Deliver accurate and youth-friendly SRH and nutrition information
• Advocate for equitable access to health and education services
• Promote gender equality and protect adolescent rights
• Collaborate more closely with government institutions and community leaders
• Integrate SMART advocacy into our ongoing youth empowerment programs

This opportunity expands CODEWA’s ability to implement impactful, community-driven initiatives that improve the lives of adolescents—especially girls and marginalized youth.

We extend our sincere appreciation to the Regional Commissioner’s Office, Nutrition International, and the BRIGHT Project team for recognizing the role of CSOs in strengthening adolescent health and nutrition.
CODEWA is committed to applying the knowledge gained to expand our work in schools, communities, and families across Tabora Region.

Together, we can build a more informed, healthy, and empowered generation.