Oct. 25 banquet in Laramie raises funds for women's education in Tanzania

October 19, 2012 — A University of Wyoming cross-cultural communication class will host a banquet to raise money and general awareness for the women of Tanzania Thursday, Oct. 25, from 7-10 p.m. at the Laramie train depot.

Women’s Education and Economic Centre (WEECE) Director Valeria Mrema will lead the discussion on gender equality and the economic stability of Tanzanian women. WEECE, a nonprofit organization that supports marginalized women and their families in the Kilimanjaro region of Tanzania, joins the UW students to raise money.

“It is common in the Kilimanjaro region for girls to be uneducated or only educated through primary school,” Mrema says. “This limited education undermines women in their ability to be economically self-reliant; in their having the knowledge, skills and ability to exercise their rights; and in their ability to foster a healthy future for themselves and their children.”

Proceeds collected from the event will go toward expanding existing girls’ schools. Contributions purchase educational materials such as books, paper and writing utensils for the future education of Tanzanian women and children.

Catered appetizers and refreshments will be provided. The Wyoming African Students Association (WASA) and the UW Belly Dance Club will provide entertainment for the evening.

Tickets cost $15 for students, $25 for non-students and $40 for couples. Five tickets can be purchased together for $100. Children 12 and under are admitted for free. To purchase tickets and for more information, call Sierra Johnson at (307) 760-5440 or email teamingupfortanzania@gmail.com. Tickets also will be sold at the door.

The UW cross-cultural communication class also has held benefits for a water spigot in Botswana during 2011 and a silent auction for Kenyan orphans in 2010.

The UW African American & Diaspora Studies department sponsors this event. For more information, contact Tracey Patton at (307)766-3857 or teamingupfortanzania@gmail.com.

Photo: It is common in the Kilimanjaro region for girls to be uneducated or only educated through primary school.