Rédaction Africa Links 24 with babucarr balajo
Published on 2024-03-13 14:47:57
International Women’s Day is a global celebration of women’s achievements, recognition of their ongoing efforts towards gender equality, justice, and inclusion. Alliance Française de Banjul and Women’s Association for Victims Empowerment (WAVE) recently joined the global community in celebrating this important day under the theme “Count Her In; Invest in Women. Accelerate Progress.”
The event at Alliance Française de Banjul included theatre workshops, meditative and therapy sessions, an exhibition showcasing women entrepreneurship, and a colourful theatre show titled “Mondial.E.S” produced by Brr Production in Senegal. The director of Alliance Française, Justine Guschlbauer, emphasised the importance of celebrating Women’s Day with a human rights dimension through arts and culture, creating awareness and calling for actions around women’s rights, empowerment, and gender equality.
Justine praised the courage and determination of WAVE and other women’s groups in their efforts to enhance women’s participation and contribution across all levels. She highlighted the need for continued support and partnership with women’s groups to drive change and progress. Priscilla Yagu Ciesay from WAVE reaffirmed her organisation’s dedication to advancing women’s empowerment in The Gambia, particularly within the context of justice, accountability, reparations, and closure for victims.
The commemoration of International Women’s Day not only celebrates women’s achievements but also provides a platform for meaningful engagements with victims of human rights violations, particularly victims of enforced disappearances. This event aims to support them in honoring the memories of those who have passed or disappeared and help them heal.
In partnership with other organizations, WAVE plans to advocate for the government to address and expand awareness and discussions around issues of enforced disappearances. The director of Brr Production Dakar, Berengere Brooks, described the play “Mondial” as a humorous portrayal of women’s rights in West Africa, feminist struggles, and women’s rights in the context of globalization and other social realities.
Alliance Française de Banjul has been actively involved in initiatives honoring and recognizing the contributions of women in The Gambia and other parts of West Africa. As we reflect on the past and look towards promoting gender equality, events like these serve as a reminder of the progress that has been made and the work that still needs to be done to ensure equality between genders in all aspects of life.
Overall, International Women’s Day serves as a reminder to continue the fight for gender equality, justice, and inclusion, celebrating the achievements of women while acknowledging the challenges that still exist. It is a day to honor the invincible spirit of women and to inspire action towards a more equal and just society for all.
Read the original article on The Standard
