EQUALITY FOR WOMEN IS PROGRESS FOR ALL

The world celebrated the International women’s day over the weekend (8^th March) under the theme “Equality for women is progress for all”. This year’s was not a celebration like any other but a celebration of social, economic, political gains made by women and the challenges experienced over the years. Even with these gains, women have been and continue to be agents of peace. According to Hilary Clinton, women have for many times tried to show that they are not only victims of war but agents of peace. The crucial role they play in ending conflict and building last peace in the family and community at large cannot go unrecognized.

As women continues to influence peace, gender equality for both women and girls must be achieved; not just as a fundamental human right but because development in many other areas depend on it. At this juncture I wish to concur with UN Secretary General who underlined that “companies with more women leaders perform better, peace agreements that include women are more durable and parliaments with more women enact more legislation on key social issues.” Balance participation by both men and women in decision making bodies improves democracy.

However, despite the progress made and several opportunities available for women, their visible participation in peace process especially in the East African region remains minimal an indication of democracy deficit. The use of sexual violence as weapon of war, their limited inclusion in key decision making bodies of countries are challenges yet to be addressed.

Fighting for women and girls empowerment, human rights, gender equality and quality education of girls will go a long way in eliminating the challenges they face in the 21^st century. It will also eliminate extreme poverty and enhance development and make them fully play their role in the society of building strong families, communities and democracies.

By supporting visible representation of women in leadership positions will ensure a more just, peaceful and secure world. All the key players ie the governments and the community at large should understand that they have a duty of making women and girls empowered and their human rights protected.

Guided by the AMECEA mission “to inspire and empower God’s family in AMECEA to a credible and prophetic witness to Christ by promoting unity, justice, peace and solidarity” Justice and Peace Desk is committed to advocate for gender equality, human rights for all and empowerment of women  and girls. We recognize the fact that all are equal in the eyes of God; created in the image and likeness of God.

Below is a table of No. of women in Parliament in AMECEA region as at January 2014

Country                                no. seats                  no. of women         Percentage

Tanzania                               350                             126                             36.0%

Uganda                                 386                             135                             35%

Ethiopia                                 547                             152                             27.8%

Sudan                                     354                             86                               24.3%

Malawi                                  193                             43                               22.3%

Eritrea                                   150                             33                               22.0%

Kenya                                    350                             67                               19.1%           

Zambia                                  158                             17                               10.8%

Data from Inter-parliamentary Union’s website