International Women’s Day is a time to celebrate the achievements, resilience, and invaluable contributions of women across the globe. African leaders from various fields have shared their thoughts with Sputnik Africa, acknowledging the vital role women play in society and urging continued progress toward gender equality.
Dr. Adeola Oluwafemi, a lecturer of Russian language in Nigeria, emphasized the growing presence of women in leadership and governance.
“Today, what a man can do, a woman can also do better, and that is why I'm happy in Nigeria today, as women are being featured in elective positions like House of Representatives and House of Senates, and we have cases of women becoming governors of some states. That is quite encouraging,” he said.
Oluwafemi also expressed hope that young girls will continue to see their value in society and be inspired to pursue their ambitions.
Louis Gouend, President of the Cameroonian diaspora in Russia, extended heartfelt congratulations to women worldwide, with special recognition for African women living in Russia.
Josia Moyo, Deputy Director of Research and Policy Development at the South African BRICS Youth Association, not only celebrated women’s achievements but also acknowledged the challenges they continue to face.
“Let us celebrate the strength, innovation, and resilience of women everywhere. […] Let today be yet another reminder across governments, the private sector, civil society, and the world at large to build a more inclusive, just, safe, and thriving world for women and girls,” he encouraged.
Kenyan Senator Godfrey Osotsi echoed Moyo’s sentiment, calling for reflection on both the positive contributions of women and the struggles they endure.
“We also want to reflect on the rights of women. We also want to reflect on the challenges that women have gone through—issues of early marriages, issues of female genital mutilation, issues of abuse, and many, many, many challenges that women go through,” he said.
The senator urged governments worldwide to strengthen laws that protect women from these injustices.
Other speakers, such as Zwelibanzi Maziya from South Africa, highlighted the deep-rooted significance of women in history and society.
“Kings have started wars for the love of a woman and to keep her safe, along with the family. And women bring life. And we cannot be without women,” he stated.
Ambassador Dr. Gilead Okolonkwo of Nigeria acknowledged the often-overlooked contributions of women and encouraged them to continue their efforts.
“To our mothers, to our sisters, to our wives, who have relentlessly continued to contribute, even though sometimes that contribution may not be acknowledged… even though you are not being celebrated on a daily basis, that impact is felt around the world. You should keep up with that good work,” he concluded.