Statement by

H.E Moussa Faki Mahamat

Chairperson of the African Union Commission

On the occasion of

The 8^th Specialised Technical Committee on Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment

13^th November 2023

This statement was delivered by H.E. Bineta Diop, African Union Special Envoy on Women, Peace and Security, on behalf of the Chairperson.

Your Excellency Madam Amongi Betty Ongom, Chairperson of the Bureau of the Specialized Technical Committee on Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment and Minister of Gender, Labour and Social Development,      Republic of Uganda

Your Excellencies AU Ministers, Members of the Bureau of the Specialized Technical Committee on Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment,

Your Excellencies African Union Ministers in charge of Gender and Women’s Affairs,

Experts in Ministries in charge of the Gender and Women’s Affairs,

Ms. Prudence Ngwenya, Director of the Women, Gender and Youth Directorate, AUC

Representatives of the Regional Economic Communities,

Representatives of AU Organs and Specialised Agencies,

Representatives of United Nations agencies,

Representatives of Civil Society Organizations,

Excellences, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,

Excellencies, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen

As we gather here today, we reflect on the challenges that have shaped our collective journey towards gender equality and women's empowerment. The trials of the past have tested our resolve and underscored the pressing need for action. However, we gather here not merely as witnesses to adversity, but as architects of triumph. We have confronted these challenges with unwavering determination, and in doing so, we have unveiled our capacity to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles.

We have assembled at the 8th Specialized Technical Committee on Gender Equality and Women's Empowerment to confront these challenges, ensuring that no woman or girl is left behind. This is our platform to unite, share knowledge, and galvanize collective efforts towards dismantling the barriers that continue to impede the progress of women and girls. It is our opportunity to deliberate, strategize, and implement measures that will have a lasting impact on the lives of African women, who, for too long, have endured injustices.

Our collective purpose is to ensure that women and girls across Africa have the opportunity to realise their full potential, unrestricted by the constraints of gender-based discrimination, violence, or inequality. It is our shared responsibility to stand as a united front in the face of adversity, working tirelessly to provide opportunities, amplify voices, and cultivate environments where women and girls can thrive.

Our commitment to this mission is unwavering, evident in the actions we have undertaken amongst which is the upcoming 2023 African Union 3^rd Men’s Conference on Positive Masculinity in Leadership to End Violence Against Women and Girls scheduled from 27^th to 28^th November 2023 in Johannesburg, South Africa, that further our progress on “Consolidating Commitments Towards the African Union Convention on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls”. As the Positive Masculinity Initiative has been pivotal in driving the imperative to eradicate all forms of violence and discrimination against women and girls, we have achieved milestones such as the African Women's Decade on Financial and Economic Inclusion of women, which underscores our determination to emancipate women and promote sustainable development. The African Union remains steadfast in our commitment to elevate the role of women in all spheres of life and to address the vulnerabilities and challenges they face. It is an enduring challenge that we confront with unwavering resolve.

Excellencies, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen

During the days ahead, I implore you to engage in thoughtful, dedicated, and open dialogues. Share your diverse experiences, knowledge, and innovative solutions. Let our discussions serve as fertile ground for the seeds of progress, and may our resolutions be the building blocks for a more inclusive and equal Africa.

Our objective is crystal clear; we aim to ensure that on our continent every woman and girl can seize her full potential, where her rights are inviolable, her contributions are celebrated, and her choices are respected.

Excellencies, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen

In conclusion, I express my heartfelt gratitude to the honourable ministers for their unwavering leadership and commitment to gender equality and women's empowerment in Africa. Together, let us collectively transform our promises into meaningful actions and pave the way for a brighter future for the women and girls of our continent.

I thank you for your kind attention.