Under the theme "Invest in women: Accelerate progress," this year’s International Women’s Day serves as a reminder of the critical importance of prioritizing investments in women’s rights, empowerment, and economic inclusion. Africa boasts a wealth of dynamic and talented women who significantly contribute to the economy, politics, culture, and beyond.

"Despite their invaluable contributions, women continue to face persistent barriers to full equality and participation partly because of pervasive discriminatory practices and unequal access to education and employment opportunities. Also, limited representation in decision-making spaces remains a formidable challenge that must be urgently addressed.

Declared the GS of ITUC-Africa comrade Akhator Odigie.

This underscores the urgent need to challenge patriarchal norms, stereotypes, misogyny, discrimination, and gender-based violence that continue to hinder women’s progress.
ITUC-Africa reaffirms its unshaken resolve to stand with women in confronting these challenges head-on. The organization pledges to work tirelessly to counteract socio-economic, political, religious, and cultural practices that oppress, undermine, and suppress women’s rights. By amplifying their voices and advocating for gender-responsive policies and legislation, ITUC-Africa aims to create an enabling environment where women can strive and attain their full potential.

« ITUC-Africa shall also continue to campaign against other socio-economic, political, religious and cultural practices that oppress, undermine and suppress the rights of women to strive and attain their potential. We shall not be silent on those who are often forgotten, such as the many women from all walks of life who impact changes in their communities but were targeted and forced into silence ». added the General Secretary.

Finally, in his statement, ITUC-Africa General Secretary calls upon governments, employers, civil society organizations, and international partners to redouble their efforts in investing in women and girls. This entails elaborating and implementing gender-responsive policies and legislation that promote gender equality and ensure equal opportunities for all. By mobilizing workers and trade unions, ITUC-Africa aims to champion gender equality, eliminate discrimination and violence against women, and promote women’s empowerment in the workplace and society.