The Côte d'Ivoire has been elected as the 2nd vice-presidency of the African Union's Committee on Women's Equality and Empowerment. The election took place during the committee's 11th ordinary session held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The Ivoirian delegation, led by Minister Nassénéba Touré, participated in the session which focused on women's empowerment, promotion of women's rights, and strengthening continental monitoring mechanisms.
According to a communiqué from the Ministry of Women, Family, and Children, the Ivoirian delegation played a significant role in the session. The election was a result of consultations between West African states, demonstrating a spirit of dialogue and consensus-building within the Economic Community of West African States. Minister Touré expressed her gratitude for the confidence placed in Côte d'Ivoire and emphasized the country's commitment to prioritizing action, contribution, and listening.
Minister Touré outlined three guiding principles for Côte d'Ivoire's tenure: action, contribution, and listening. These principles aim to promote concrete results for women and girls. She emphasized the country's determination to work with member states, contribute to continental initiatives, and ensure that decisions produce tangible outcomes. The minister's statement reflects Côte d'Ivoire's commitment to advancing women's rights and empowerment.
The 11th session of the Committee on Women's Equality and Empowerment examined several key issues. These included the implementation of the Solemn Declaration on Gender Equality in Africa and the activities of the African Gender Observatory. The session also focused on economic and financial inclusion, prevention of violence against women and girls, and the economy of care.
Participants at the session discussed the importance of recognizing unpaid work and strengthening statistics on gender equality. They also examined the African Common Position in preparation for the 71st session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women. This session will focus on defending women's economic empowerment, access to financing, and digital inclusion.
The Ivoirian delegation presented national initiatives to promote women's economic empowerment and protect their rights. These initiatives include the Fund for Support to Women in Côte d'Ivoire. The delegation also highlighted the opportunities offered by the African Continental Free Trade Area to facilitate women's access to markets and value chains.
The election of Côte d'Ivoire as 2nd vice-presidency of the Committee on Women's Equality and Empowerment demonstrates the country's commitment to advancing women's rights. The country's tenure will focus on promoting concrete results and strengthening partnerships with member states. Key initiatives will prioritize women's economic empowerment and protection of their rights.
Key points
- Côte d'Ivoire elected as 2nd vice-presidency of AU's Committee on Women's Rights and Empowerment
- Ivoirian delegation presents national initiatives to promote women's economic empowerment
- Country to prioritize action, contribution, and listening during its tenure
