The 28th Ordinary General Assembly of the Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OPDAD) was held recently at the African Union in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The event, under the theme of “Educate and Transform Africa: Improving access to health and education for African women and girls of the 21st century”, brought together eleven African First Ladies, OPDAD partners and special guests from around the world.
Denise NYAKERU TSHISEKEDI, Vice President of OPDAD and First Lady of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), highlighted the organization’s commitment to vulnerable people for more than two decades. OPDAD’s strategic objectives aim to reduce neonatal, infant and maternal mortality rates, improve adolescent sexual and reproductive health, promote gender equality and combat violence against women and girls.
Education is at the heart of the concerns of OPDAD and the African Union. Indeed, educational equity is a powerful lever for social transformation. It is an essential tool for building a prosperous Africa, where women and youth are educated, healthy and empowered.
The African Union Agenda 2063, which aims for inclusive and sustainable development on the continent, highlights the need to ensure high standards of living, good health and well-being of all Africans, emphasizing emphasis on women, youth and children. The aspirations of this agenda aim to bring about positive change and support Africa’s long-term development.
The African Union Commission, championing key initiatives aligned with OPDAD pillars such as health, education, economic empowerment and combating violence against women, plays a crucial role in protection and education of children as well as in the well-being of mothers, adolescents and the African population as a whole.
In summary, the 28th OPDAD General Assembly highlighted the importance of the education of women and girls in the transformation of Africa. By investing in education, health and women’s empowerment, OPDAD and the African Union are helping to build a better and more equitable future for all on the African continent.