Celebrating International Domestic Workers Day: Respect the Humanity and Dignity of Domestic Workers for the Household Wellbeing

Since its establishment, WoteSawa has been at the forefront of advocating for the recognition and protection of domestic workers in Tanzania through its awareness raising, capacity building, response and support service as well as advocacy interventions. In collaboration with other partners and stakeholders, WoteSawa has been actively engaging in advocacy for ratification of the ILO Convention No. 189  through different platforms. Currently, the Government of Tanzania is expected to ratify C189 soon; an important milestone in strengthening labour rights and protections for domestic workers in the country.

A photo from the 2018 International Domestic Workers Day commemoration, featuring domestic workers, the Executive Director of WoteSawa, Ms. Angela Benedicto (second from the right), and other seated stakeholders

Every 16th June, the world marks International Domestic Workers Day, a vital moment to recognize and uplift the often-overlooked contributions of domestic workers globally. As part of its advocacy interventions, WoteSawa has been organizing a series of interventions at regional level (in Mwanza) from 2018 to date. Substantially, all of the interventions aimed at promoting decent work for domestic workers. In carrying out the said interventions, WoteSawa maintained close collaboration with state and non-state actors, including involvement of prominent government leaders such as the following Hon. Anthony Mavunde who was the then ​​Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister's Office responsible for Policy, Parliamentary Affairs, Labour, Employment, Youth, and Persons with Disability and Hon. Gaudensia Kabaka, the former Minister of Labour and Employment. 

This year, We celebrated it differently by joining hands with more than 40 domestic workers at Nyakahoja Hall, Mwanza. Guided by this year’s theme, “Respecting the humanity and dignity of domestic workers for the well-being of domestic workers,” the event served as a powerful reminder of the value and rights of domestic workers in Tanzania and around the world.

Domestic workers from Mwanza smiling toward the celebration of International Domestic Workers Day, carrying powerful messages such as 'Amplify the voice of domestic workers' and 'When a domestic worker is safe, the family is safer.

One of the most moving parts of the day was the testimony of Jacinta MutaKyawa, a former domestic worker who is now a professional psychologist. Jacinta led a meaningful session on self-care and mental wellness, reminding domestic workers of the importance of prioritizing their emotional well-being, despite the demanding nature of their work.

She was quoted as saying,

"A domestic worker should be seen with a special eye, one of hope, for they are the ones who make it possible for us to stand, to thrive, and for the joy we have."

To our joy, the celebration was made even more special by a surprise video message from Hon. Neema Lugangira, Member of Parliament – Special Seats, who commended the vital role of domestic workers and encouraged them to remain strong and continue fighting for their rights. Her message not only inspired those present but also affirmed the importance of including domestic workers in national development conversations
Throughout the celebration, WoteSawa continued to push for the ratification of ILO Convention 189 (C189), a global treaty that promises decent work and protections for domestic workers. As we commemorate this day, we also amplify our commitment to lobbying for policy changes that ensure legal and social protections for this crucial workforce.

Additionally, empowering messages were shared encouraging domestic workers to actively participate in the upcoming elections, recognizing that their voices and votes matter in shaping policies that affect their lives and livelihoods.

At WoteSawa, we remain steadfast in our vision of a society where domestic workers are respected, empowered, and protected. This celebration was not just a commemoration, it was a movement forward, reminding us all that domestic workers deserve dignity, justice, and opportunity, not just on June 16th but every single day.