Nigeria (Brussels Morning) March is an exhilarating time for me, buzzing with activity as we collaborate on #IWD initiatives, involving both women and men who are increasingly enthusiastic about celebrating International Women’s Day.
During Women’s History Month, we proudly share stories of courage, determination, and overcoming challenges, united in our ongoing pursuit of equal opportunities.
As we embrace this year’s theme, #inspireinclusion, I find immense inspiration in the remarkable achievements of women. March, enriched by over a century of IWD celebrations, has become a beacon for women’s empowerment.
Yet, amidst the recognition of women’s achievements, a stark reality emerges – progress toward the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5: Gender Equality, is alarmingly slow. A UN Women report identifies “lackluster commitment to gender inequality” and “deeply rooted biases against women” as plausible causes.
A critical example lies in female education, where millions of African girls lack access to this fundamental right. While strides have been recorded in private sector leadership, social, cultural and economic barriers hinder girls’ education, limiting women’s potential contribution to economic growth. The consequences are profound – gender disparities in education widen gaps in STEM, restrict participation in emerging tech, and impede the female leadership pipeline.
Emerging economic uncertainty, climate risk, and geopolitical challenges not only exacerbate inequality (women often bear the brunt of these crises), but also paralyze ongoing policy commitments to gender equality. It is time to declare a gender inequality state of emergency.
To harness the economic potential of women in Africa, businesses and governments must go beyond symbolic #IWD events. A new approach involves identifying country-specific gender inequality issues, implementing targeted strategies, setting measurable targets, engaging the private sector, and celebrating progress on International Women’s Day.
Until we realize that gender inequality is not just a human rights issue, but also a missed economic opportunity, our continent may not achieve the inclusive growth that is so badly needed and thus far proven elusive.
Africa has access to resources and proven solutions to address gender equity. With collective will and a targeted approach a gender equal future is possible.
Happy International Women’s Day!
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