Title: The First Ladies of Africa united for gender equality: assessment and perspectives
Introduction :
Each year, the United Nations General Assembly offers First Ladies a platform for exchanges and discussions on the future of their organization. At this year’s meeting of the Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OPDAD), the First Ladies reviewed the results of the unifying campaign for gender equality in Africa, launched last June. Under the theme “We are all equal: Closing the gender gap in Africa”, the First Ladies discussed the actions carried out in their respective countries in the areas of education, maternal and child health, and women’s economic empowerment. , the fight against gender-based sexual violence, as well as female leadership for greater equity.
The results of the campaign:
During this meeting, the Vice-President of OPDAD, Denise Nyakeru Tshisekedi, First Lady of the Democratic Republic of Congo, recalled the 10 commitments made with her counterparts to bridge the gender gap in Africa. She stressed the importance of not sacrificing these commitments on the altar of inaction, because future generations will judge us. This collective empowerment was unanimously supported by the First Ladies present.
Jill Biden’s contribution:
This meeting was marked by the presence of Jill Biden, First Lady of the United States of America, who is committed alongside the First Ladies of Africa in the fight against all forms of discrimination against women. Her participation demonstrates the importance given by the international community to the promotion of gender equality in Africa.
Perspectives and new initiatives:
The unifying campaign for gender equality in Africa, which concluded last September, was reviewed at the meeting. New perspectives were considered to strengthen the actions undertaken in several African countries, with the aim of improving the well-being of the continent. OPDAD will continue to work in collaboration with governments, international organizations and civil society to put in place concrete strategies aimed at reducing inequalities between men and women.
Conclusion :
The OPDAD meeting once again highlighted the commitment of Africa’s First Ladies to gender equality. Actions in the areas of education, health, economic empowerment and the fight against violence are essential to create a more equitable future for all. The presence of Jill Biden strengthened this international mobilization and demonstrates the importance of this cause on a global scale.. New perspectives and initiatives pave the way for significant progress in promoting gender equality in Africa.