Mongella, Gertrude (1945–)

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Mongella, Gertrude (1945–)

Tanzanian educator, politician, diplomat, and activist. Name variations: Gertrude Ibengwe Mongella. Born Sept 13, 1945, on Ukerewe, an island in Lake Victoria, Tanganyika (now United Republic of Tanzania); degree in education from Dar es Salaam University, 1970; married; children: 1 daughter, 3 sons.

Internationally known for her efforts to improve the status of women, taught at Changombe Teachers College, Tanzania (1970–75); served as curriculum developer at Institute of Adult Education, Tanzania (1975–78); became one of few female members of Chama Cha Mapinduzi (Revolutionary Party); was a legislative council member (1975–82) and central committee member (1982–87); served as school inspector of Eastern Zone School District (1981–82); appointed minister of state (1982); served as head of department of social welfare (1982–91), minister of lands, natural resources, and tourism (1985–87), and minister without portfolio (1987–91); represented Tanzania at numerous international conferences (1980s); appointed High Commissioner to India (1991); member, board of trustees of United Nations' International Research and Training Institute for the Advancement of Women (INSTRAW); served as secretary-general, Fourth United Nations World Conference on Women (1992–95).

See also Women in World History.