The education and health of African women and girls are at the heart of the concerns of the 28th Ordinary General Assembly of the Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OPDAD), which was held recently at the Union Africa in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Under the theme “Educate and Transform Africa”, this event brought together eleven African First Ladies, OPDAD partners and special guests from around the world.
During this meeting, Denise NYAKERU TSHISEKEDI, Vice-President of OPDAD and First Lady of the Democratic Republic of Congo, highlighted the organization’s commitment to the strategic objectives aimed at improving maternal and child health, promote gender equality and combat different forms of violence against women and girls. She also highlighted the power of education as an essential tool for fostering social change in Africa.
The African Union’s Agenda 2063, an ambitious strategic framework for sustainable development on the continent, highlights the importance of ensuring high standards of living, good health and well-being for all Africans, in focusing on women, youth and children. This is a call for positive and inclusive change for the entire African population.
The African Union Commission is also committed to supporting key initiatives aligned with OPDAD priorities, such as health, education, economic empowerment and combating violence against women.
Through this event and these commitments, African First Ladies and their partners reaffirmed their desire to work together to build a prosperous, educated, healthy and autonomous Africa. Promoting the education and health of women and girls is imperative to ensure a sustainable and inclusive future for Africa.
Find out more about OPDAD news and current initiatives:
– [Article on the OPDAD meeting](link1)
– [Analysis of African Union Agenda 2063](link2)
– [AU Commission Press Release](link3)