Title: Africa’s First Ladies Unite for Gender Equality at OPDAD Conference
Introduction :
Each year, the United Nations General Assembly offers African First Ladies a platform for discussion and exchange on the future of their organization. This year, the Conference of the Organization of First Ladies of Africa for Development (OPDAD) focused on actions taken to promote gender equality in Africa. Under the theme “We are all equal: Closing the gender gap in Africa”, the First Ladies shared the initiatives carried out in their respective countries for education, maternal and child health, women’s economic empowerment, the fight against gender-based sexual violence and female leadership.
Strong commitments:
The vice-president of OPDAD, Denise Nyakeru Tshisekedi, First Lady of the Democratic Republic of Congo, recalled the 10 commitments made by the First Ladies to bridge the gender gap in Africa. She stressed the importance of not sacrificing these commitments through inaction, because future generations will judge us. The call for collective accountability was launched, emphasizing that each First Lady has a role to play in promoting gender equality.
A distinguished guest:
The presence of Jill Biden, First Lady of the United States of America, marked this conference. She is committed alongside African First Ladies in the fight against all forms of discrimination against women. Her participation reinforced the message of unity and collaboration to achieve gender equality.
The unifying campaign for gender equality in Africa:
The OPDAD Conference examined the results of the unifying campaign for gender equality in Africa, launched last June on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of OPDAD in Kinshasa. New perspectives were considered to continue to promote gender equality on the African continent.
Conclusion :
The OPDAD Conference highlighted the crucial role of African First Ladies in promoting gender equality in Africa. The strong initiatives and commitments made at this conference demonstrate the desire to bridge the gender gap and achieve a more equal society. With the support of international figures such as Jill Biden, OPDAD continues to play a key role in the empowerment of women and the fight against gender discrimination in Africa.