African Women's Network Calls for Reforms on Africa Day

The Women's Democracy Network-Africa brings together women political leaders from across Africa advocating for women's empowerment.

HARARE, Zimbabwe— The Women's Democracy Network-Africa marked Africa Day on May 25 with a call for education and governance reforms to promote equal participation of women in leadership across the continent, writes Winston Mwale.

In a statement, the network of women political leaders highlighted the Africa Day 2024 theme "Educate an African fit for the 21st Century," urging improved political will, legal reforms, and addressing harmful social norms to implement commitments to gender equality.

"African girls and women continue to be disadvantaged in education and training," the statement said, citing literacy gaps and vulnerability to violence.

"Despite progress in some countries on girls' education, the number who complete secondary school is small."

The group noted 70% of African women work in agriculture, but often lack equal land rights, access to credit and decision-making power over resources compared to men.

"While many African women are active as leaders in their communities, across the continent, men tend to dominate in cash crops whilst women serve as manual laborers," the statement said.

To address inequalities, WDN-Africa called on governments to review education policies, appoint women to lead key ministries, adopt policies reducing unpaid care work, support women's organizations and remove obstacles restricting women's economic opportunities.

The network also urged the United Nations, African Union and parliaments to ensure accountability on gender equality commitments, including the U.N. Sustainable Development Goal 5 and the African Union's protocol on women's rights.

Additionally, WDN-Africa encouraged African women "to remain resolute, invest in self-development, build confidence through mentorship and take up leadership opportunities."

The Women's Democracy Network-Africa brings together women political leaders from across Africa advocating for women's empowerment.

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