We are at the heart of African news with the launch of the “We are all equal” campaign by the first ladies of Africa in collaboration with the first lady of the United States, Dr. Jill Biden. This call to action aims to address the gender inequalities that persist on the continent.
The Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OPDAD) examined the results of this campaign during a conference held in New York, in the presence of many African first ladies. Under the theme “We are all equal: Closing the gender gap in Africa”, the participants discussed the actions implemented in their respective countries to promote education, maternal and child health, economic empowerment of women, the fight against sexual violence and the promotion of female leadership.
Denise Nyakeru Tshisekedi, first lady of the Democratic Republic of Congo and vice-president of OPDAD, took the floor to recall the ten commitments made by the first ladies to close the gender gaps in Africa. She stressed the importance of moving from words to action and not sacrificing these commitments through inaction. She also called for collective accountability with a view to transforming African societies for a more just and egalitarian future.
A distinguished guest was also present at this conference, the first lady of the United States, Dr. Jill Biden, who joined the first ladies of Africa in the fight against all forms of discrimination against women .
This unifying campaign, which ended in September 2023, was an opportunity to take stock of the actions carried out in different African countries to promote gender equality. It testifies to the commitment of the first ladies to work for a continent where women and men are truly equal in rights and opportunities.
The fight for gender equality is a crucial issue for the development of Africa. By combatting gender inequalities, we are paving the way for a more balanced and prosperous future for all people on the continent. Together we are all equal and together we can build a better future.