mortality, gender inequality, and digital violence are challenges faced by women. Women are also deprived in the digital world. The digital divide is an area of concern that needs to be addressed.”
H.E. Aisha Jumwa, Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of Public Service, Gender, and Affirmative Action, equally observed that despite the positive efforts made, the persistent challenges, including female genital mutilation and violence against women, remain. She, however, noted that progress has been made in advancing women’s rights and gender equality. “As we celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Maputo Protocol on the Rights of Women in Africa, I must commend Namibia, Rwanda, and South Africa for their significant progress in closing the gender gap, with over 70% achievement. I urge other Member States to take inspiration from these countries and follow suit in implementing measures to promote gender equality and women's rights. 80% of Member States, which represents 44 countries, have ratified the Protocol, I call upon the remaining countries to follow suit and ratify the Protocol.”
Awa Ndiaye Seck, UN Women Special Representative to the African Union and UNECA, noted that the ratification of the Maputo Protocol by the 44 Member States is a powerful demonstration of political will, a willingness to acknowledge that there are inequalities and that it is the responsibility of government to ensure that gender gaps as a result of inequality, are bridged. “We have witnessed the adoption of robust legal frameworks to prevent, protect and respond to violence against women as well as improved access to health services, including reproductive health and rights. More girls and women have also enrolled in formal education institutions and have pursued innovation and technology as their career pathways. We commend the African Union for the exemplary leadership it set by prioritizing actions around maternal health, ending child marriage and female genital mutilation, addressing the impact of conflicts on women and girls, enhancing women’s role at the peace table.”
Eunice Ipingi, the President of the Pan African Women’s Organisation, while recognizing the struggle for gender equality over the years, emphasized the importance of transforming challenges into opportunities for innovative solutions to advance the advocacy of the rights of women. “The 20th anniversary of the Maputo Protocol serves as a significant occasion not only to reflect on past achievements but also as a call-to-action for all stakeholders to stand together and work towards achieving the aspirations for women on the continent. We have made achievements made in entrepreneurship and politics across the continent, albeit with some challenges. We must also increase investments in education, healthcare, financial and economic inclusion for women and youth.”
Faiza Jama Mohamed, Africa Office Director, Equality Now, underscored the importance of acknowledging and uplifting African women, recognizing their contributions towards a more inclusive and equitable society. “We must continue to create opportunities and provide a supportive environment for women to thrive. This includes empowering women through access to education, economic resources, and equal participation in decision-making processes. It is important to identify the challenges that still exist and bring together all stakeholders to address them collectively.”
Kenya’s Senator Hon. Catherine Mumma underscored the role of legislators in ensuring the rights of women are protected and the need for collaboration to ensure
