With these powerful words, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah took the presidential oath, making history as Namibia’s first female president and the country’s fifth head of state since gaining independence in 1990. At 72, Nandi-Ndaitwah’s ascension to power is not just a personal achievement but a landmark victory for gender equality and women’s leadership in Africa.

READ ALSO: The Maturity of Namibia’s Democracy: A Model for African Nations

A staunch loyalist of the South West Africa People’s Organisation (SWAPO), Nandi-Ndaitwah has spent decades shaping Namibia’s political landscape. Her career is deeply intertwined with the country’s liberation struggle, and her leadership within SWAPO has been instrumental in policymaking and governance.

Her victory in the November 2024 elections, where she defeated former President Nangolo Mbumba, signalled a new era of inclusive leadership and a continued commitment to the progressive values that SWAPO has championed since independence. Nandi-Ndaitwah now holds the distinguished title of Africa’s second democratically elected female president, following Liberia’s Ellen Johnson Sirleaf.

Nandi-Ndaitwah’s Commitment to Gender Equality

Her inauguration, coinciding with Namibia’s 35th independence anniversary, was a moment of celebration not only for Namibians but also for women across Africa. Distinguished female leaders attended the event, with former Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf leading a delegation on behalf of President Joseph Boakai.

In her inaugural speech, Nandi-Ndaitwah reaffirmed SWAPO’s longstanding commitment to gender equality, reminding the world that in 2002, the party amended its constitution to ensure 50/50 representation in leadership structures. This policy has resulted in women holding key government positions, herself included.

However, she emphasised that while Namibia has made great strides toward gender equality, more remains to be done. She urged women to step forward for leadership roles based on their capabilities rather than gender alone, reinforcing that her election was won on merit, not symbolism.

A Cabinet That Reflects Progress

Underscoring her dedication to inclusive governance, Nandi-Ndaitwah appointed several women to key ministerial positions, making her cabinet one of the most gender-balanced in Africa. Notable appointments include:

– Lucia Witbooi – Vice President

– Erica Shafudah – Minister of Finance

– Selma Ashipala-Musavyi – Minister of International Relations

– Emma Theofelus – Minister of Information and Communication Technology

– Lucia Iipumbu – Minister of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety, and Security

– Esperance Luvindao – Minister of Health and Social Services

– Indileni Daniel – Minister of Environment

– Sanet Steenkamp – Minister of Education

– Emma Katema – Minister of Gender Equality

With such a diverse and competent team, Nandi-Ndaitwah is signalling a new dawn for Namibia—one where women are not just part of the conversation but actively shaping the nation’s future.

A Vision for Namibia’s Future

Beyond gender equality, President Nandi-Ndaitwah’s agenda focuses on national development. She has pledged to increase investment in infrastructure to drive economic growth, create jobs, and improve the quality of life for all Namibians. Recognising the importance of education and skill development, she has reaffirmed her commitment to strengthening Namibia’s education system to produce a highly skilled workforce.

Healthcare is another top priority for her administration. She has called for the implementation of universal health coverage to ensure all Namibians have access to quality healthcare services, regardless of socio-economic status.

Africa’s March Toward Equality

Nandi-Ndaitwah’s presidency marks another milestone in Africa’s journey toward gender equality in leadership. While the continent has seen women rise to power—such as Malawi’s former Vice President Joyce Banda and Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan—the fight for greater representation continues. Activists and gender equality advocates view her election as a catalyst for more African nations to embrace women in top leadership roles.

Her victory is not just Namibia’s triumph; it is Africa’s. As she embarks on this new chapter, the African Leadership Organisation congratulates her as a beacon of hope, proving that leadership is not confined by gender but defined by vision, dedication, and the ability to inspire a nation.

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Kemi Badenoch’s story is one of perseverance and vision, showcasing the power of self-determination. Born in London to Nigerian parents, Kemi spent part of her childhood in Nigeria, instilling a strong sense of cultural identity and the values of education, service, and hard work. Upon returning to the UK, she was inspired to enter politics to address societal issues. In her words, “Our history shapes who we are, but it doesn’t limit who we can become.” This belief propelled her to stand for office, leading to her election as the Member of Parliament for Saffron Walden in 2017.

The Rise of Women in Politics

Kemi’s ascent in politics has come during a period of increasing female representation, though gender parity remains elusive. As of 2023, women hold approximately 35% of seats in the UK Parliament—a historic high yet still below parity. Within this group, the number of women of African heritage remains low, underscoring Kemi’s importance as a symbol of diversity and inclusivity in British politics. Her prominence represents more than individual success; it marks a breakthrough for the political representation of Black women in the UK.

In her role as Minister for Equalities, which she assumed in 2020, Kemi has championed policies aimed at reducing gender and racial disparities. Among her significant initiatives was a review of the UK’s gender pay gap, a persistent issue as women continue to earn, on average, 14.9% less than men. “Transparency is the first step to change,” she remarked, emphasising her commitment to evidence-based solutions that address systemic inequalities. Her advocacy for fair pay and workplace equity has been instrumental in advancing the conversation on gender equality.

Pioneering Initiatives in Youth and Education

Education and economic empowerment are central to Kemi’s vision, particularly in addressing inequalities that affect young women. Only 23% of girls from low-income backgrounds in the UK enter higher education, highlighting the urgent need for reform. Reflecting on her own journey and the transformative role of education, Kemi has become a vocal advocate for equal opportunities for young women across the UK.

In advocating for educational reform, Kemi stated, “We cannot call ourselves a progressive society if young girls are denied the same start in life as their wealthier counterparts.” Her work has included launching initiatives to expand scholarships and educational resources for young women from underrepresented backgrounds, illustrating how far-reaching the impact of female leadership can be.

Overcoming Challenges and Leading with Resilience

Kemi’s journey has been marked by challenges, particularly as a Black woman in a prominent leadership position. She has faced intensified scrutiny and criticism, a reality common for women in leadership roles, especially those from minority backgrounds. Nonetheless, she has remained steadfast. Her tenure as Minister for Housing underscored her commitment to addressing structural inequalities, as she focused on housing issues affecting single mothers and low-income families—a group often neglected in policy discussions.

Kemi has spoken openly about the need for policy to be grounded in empathy and practical solutions, stating, “If we don’t make housing accessible and safe, we are failing as a society.” Her efforts to address the root causes of inequality, rather than just the symptoms, highlight her dedication to meaningful change.

Championing Change and Mentoring Future Generations

Kemi’s achievements serve as more than personal milestones; they reflect her commitment to paving the way for future women leaders. In 2022, she launched a mentorship programme for young women of African and Caribbean descent, offering guidance, resources, and support to help them pursue their aspirations. “Mentorship is not charity; it’s a responsibility,” she emphasised. “When one of us rises, we all rise.”

Globally, women hold only 26% of parliamentary seats as of 2023—a stark reminder of the obstacles that remain. However, Kemi’s journey serves as a beacon of possibility, inspiring hope that more women like her will step into leadership roles, gradually narrowing this gap.

Breaking Boundaries for the Next Generation

Kemi Badenoch’s journey is a testament to overcoming boundaries and defying expectations. As a Black woman of Nigerian heritage, her achievements illuminate a new path in a traditionally male-dominated field. She once stated, “We are not here by accident. We are here because we belong, because we deserve a voice.”

Her leadership is a powerful reminder that true leadership extends beyond personal achievements—it is about leaving a legacy that others can follow. Kemi’s journey from Nigeria to the UK Parliament speaks not only to her capabilities but also to the broader potential of women to drive meaningful change in society.

A Lasting Legacy

In celebrating Kemi Badenoch, we honour not just her contributions to politics but her embodiment of hope for all women aspiring to leadership. Her legacy is one of resilience, empowerment, and inspiration, illustrating that no dream is too ambitious and no barrier unbreakable. Through her journey, Kemi Badenoch is a powerful symbol for future generations, proving that the path to leadership is open to all, regardless of background.

The post Celebrating Kemi Badenoch’s Journey from Nigeria to UK Political Leadership appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

The participation of women in African peacekeeping efforts has significantly increased in recent years. The United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325, which promotes women’s involvement and perspectives in all UN peace and security efforts, has served as a cornerstone for encouraging countries to enhance women’s roles in peacekeeping and conflict resolution.

In nations such as Rwanda and Ethiopia, women now constitute at least 30% of their peacekeeping forces. This inclusion has brought unique perspectives and skills, particularly in engaging local communities and addressing the gender-specific impacts of conflict. Women’s approaches to conflict resolution are often subtler and more conciliatory than the traditionally more aggressive tactics favoured by men, offering an important complement to peace efforts in a region frequently affected by strife.

Liberia exemplifies the effectiveness of women’s involvement in peacekeeping and conflict resolution. During the country’s devastating civil war, which attracted international attention and required extensive humanitarian aid, the organisation ‘Women of Liberia Mass Action for Peace’ united Christian, Muslim, rural, and urban women in a campaign for peace. Their efforts contributed to the election of Ellen Johnson Sirleaf as Africa’s first female president, marking a significant achievement in both gender representation and conflict resolution.

Similarly, women played a crucial role in the peace processes during the Burundian conflict of 1996 and the Kenyan post-election crisis of 2007. In Burundi, the peace negotiations led by Nelson Mandela were heavily influenced by women’s contributions, helping to bring an end to the protracted civil war. In Kenya, the 2007 post-election violence, considered the country’s deadliest conflict, resulted in over 1,000 deaths and the displacement of more than 300,000 people. Women’s involvement in the African Union panel in 2008 was instrumental in mediating between opposing political parties, ultimately helping to end the violence.

However, cultural barriers have significantly hindered women’s involvement in conflict resolution across Africa. Deeply entrenched societal gender norms and limited access to decision-making positions prevent women from fully participating in security roles. Furthermore, gender discrimination and harassment within security organisations undermine the morale and effectiveness of women in these roles.

Another challenge faced by women is the lack of adequate support systems upon returning from peacekeeping missions. Many women return to societies that neither recognise their contributions nor provide a welcoming environment, perpetuating their underrepresentation in security sectors.

To address these issues, African governments and regional organisations must invest in training women for security roles, enhancing their skills and readiness for peacekeeping missions. Policies that promote gender parity in peacekeeping and security sectors should be adopted and effectively implemented. This will not only improve women’s representation but also create supportive environments that encourage their participation.

Involving local communities in peacekeeping processes and recognising women’s contributions is also crucial for lasting conflict resolution. Women should not only be involved in peacekeeping but also play a central role in rebuilding communities post-conflict. Raising awareness of the importance of women’s contributions to peacekeeping is vital to shifting cultural perceptions and garnering broader support for female participation in security roles.

Africa’s story of success in conflict resolution and peacekeeping cannot be told without acknowledging the indispensable roles of women. As the continent continues to confront the challenges of conflict, investing in women’s roles within security structures is not only a moral obligation but a strategic necessity for achieving enduring peace and stability.

The post African Women’s Role in Peacekeeping and Conflict Resolution appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

Champions for Change

Ellen Johnson Sirleaf (Liberia)
The first democratically elected female president in Africa, Sirleaf led Liberia through post-war reconstruction and reconciliation after a brutal civil war. Her leadership earned her a Nobel Peace Prize in 2011, becoming an inspiration for women across the continent.

Leymah Gbowee (Liberia)
Alongside Sirleaf, Gbowee, a social worker and activist, played a pivotal role in ending the Liberian war. Her grassroots movement, Women of Liberia Mass Action Group, used nonviolent protests and sex strikes to pressure warring factions to negotiate peace. She was a co-recipient of the 2011 Nobel Peace Prize.

Catherine Samba-Panza (Central African Republic)
As the first female president of the Central African Republic, Samba-Panza became a beacon of hope during a period of intense sectarian violence. She fostered dialogue and reconciliation efforts, advocating for the inclusion of women in peace talks.

Graça Machel (Mozambique)
Graça Machel, an international advocate for women’s and children’s rights, has significantly contributed to peace efforts across Africa. As the widow of two African presidents, Samora Machel of Mozambique and Nelson Mandela of South Africa, her influence extends beyond national borders. Machel has worked tirelessly to address the impacts of conflict on women and children and to integrate gender perspectives into peace processes. She co-founded The Elders, a group of global leaders working for peace and human rights, where she continues to champion women’s involvement in conflict resolution.

Damilola Odufuwa and Odunayo Eweniyi (Nigeria)
Odufuwa and Eweniyi joined forces in 2020 to create the Feminist Coalition, which focuses on women’s rights and safety, economic empowerment, and political participation of women in Nigeria. For its first project, the organisation supported the #EndSARS protests that swept Nigeria in 2020 and organized a food drive for low-income women and their families. “A feminist leader is empathetic and understands the importance of intersectionality,” adds Odufuwa.

Meaza Ashenafi (Ethiopia)
Meaza Ashenafi is the first female Chief Justice of Ethiopia and a trailblazer in many ways, mainly for legal advocacy through her work with Ethiopian Women’s Lawyers Association (EWLA), an organization she co-founded with like-minded young female lawyers. After finishing law school from Addis Ababa University, of which she was the only female graduate from her class year, she served as a criminal court judge, which allowed her to see first-hand how the laws were discriminating against women.
These are just a few of the many incredible women who have shaped the course of peace in Africa. Their stories showcase the diverse ways women are leading peace initiatives.

Successful Initiatives

The Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) agenda, a UN Security Council Resolution, promotes women’s participation in peace processes. African countries like Kenya, Nigeria, and South Sudan have adopted action plans to increase women’s representation in peace negotiations, protect them from gender-based violence, and incorporate their needs into post-conflict reconstruction. The African Women Leaders Network (AWLN) is a platform for women leaders to share experiences, mentor each other, and collaborate on peace and development initiatives. FemWise-Africa, an African Union initiative, strengthens women’s role in conflict prevention and mediation by providing training, capacity building, and networking opportunities for women mediators. Both initiatives aim to ensure women’s voices are heard in decision-making forums at local, national, and regional levels.

Despite progress, women in Africa face numerous challenges in leading peacebuilding initiatives. These include cultural and societal barriers, security risks, limited access to resources, and political exclusion. Traditional gender roles and patriarchal norms often limit women’s participation in peace processes, as they are often expected to focus on domestic responsibilities. Ensuring the security of women peacebuilders is crucial for their continued participation and effectiveness. Limited funding and resources also hamper their ability to implement programs and conduct outreach. Increasing investment in women-led peacebuilding initiatives is essential to amplify their impact. Lastly, women are often underrepresented in formal peace negotiations and political processes, highlighting the need for gender parity in political and peacebuilding institutions to achieve sustainable peace.

Call to Action

The future of women in African conflict resolution holds promising prospects, driven by a combination of policy advancements, grassroots mobilization, and increasing recognition of women’s contributions to peacebuilding.

Policy Advancements
The implementation of policies such as the WPS agenda and national action plans on women’s participation in peace processes is crucial. Continued advocacy for the adoption and enforcement of these policies will help create an enabling environment for women peacebuilders. Furthermore, integrating gender perspectives into all aspects of peacebuilding, from conflict prevention to post-conflict reconstruction, is essential for achieving comprehensive and lasting peace.

Grassroots Mobilization
Grassroots movements led by women have demonstrated significant success in advancing peace and reconciliation. Encouraging and supporting these movements through capacity building, funding, and networking opportunities will enhance their impact. Empowering women at the community level to take active roles in peacebuilding can lead to more inclusive and effective solutions.

READ ALSO: The Rise of African Women in the Global Financial Landscape

Education and Empowerment
Investing in the education and empowerment of women and girls is fundamental for sustaining peace efforts. Providing access to education, vocational training, and leadership development programs equips women with the skills and confidence to participate in peace processes. Promoting gender equality in education and economic opportunities will also contribute to broader societal change.

International Support and Collaboration
International organizations and partners play a crucial role in supporting women’s peacebuilding efforts in Africa. Continued collaboration with global institutions, such as the United Nations, the African Union, and international NGOs, can provide technical assistance, funding, and advocacy support. Building strong partnerships and leveraging international networks will help amplify the voices and impact of African women peacebuilders.

Women are indispensable to the peacebuilding process in Africa. Their contributions, whether through high-level leadership, grassroots activism, or innovative initiatives, have proven vital in resolving conflicts and fostering sustainable peace. Despite facing significant challenges, African women continue to demonstrate resilience and determination in their quest for peace. By addressing the barriers they face and supporting their efforts, the international community can help ensure that women’s leadership in peacebuilding is recognized, valued, and sustained. The future of conflict resolution in Africa undoubtedly lies in the hands of its women leaders.

The post Unyielding Advocates: Women Leading Peace in Africa appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

Rebuilding the Education System

Prior to the genocide, Rwanda’s education system faced challenges like low enrollment rates, teacher shortages, and a curriculum that emphasized rote learning. The genocide exacerbated these issues, destroying schools and displacing millions. However, the post-genocide government, led by President Paul Kagame, prioritized education.

One of the most significant reforms was the introduction of a competency-based curriculum in 2003. This approach shifted the focus from memorization to critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills. Subjects like information and communication technology (ICT) were integrated, preparing students for the digital age.

Investing in Teachers

Rwanda recognized that a strong education system hinges on qualified and motivated teachers. The government increased teacher salaries, provided extensive training programs, and implemented performance-based incentives. This emphasis on teacher development is evident in statistics.  According to a 2018 World Bank report, the pupil-teacher ratio in Rwanda significantly improved from 58:1 in 2000 to 23:1 in primary schools. The Teacher Training College in Rukara, built in 2006, exemplifies Rwanda’s commitment to teacher education. This state-of-the-art facility equips future teachers with the latest pedagogical approaches and technology integration skills.

Technology

Rwanda is leveraging technology to transform education delivery. The “ICT-in-Education” policy, launched in 2016, aims to create “Smart Classrooms.”  By 2021, the government aimed to connect 85% of schools to the internet. This initiative provides students with access to online resources, and interactive learning tools, and facilitates innovative teaching methods.

A 2021 KT Press report highlights the government’s optimism: “The Ministry of Education says about 85% of the schools across the country will be connected to the internet in the next two years.”

However, challenges remain. Equipping all schools with quality internet infrastructure and ensuring equitable access to technology across rural and urban areas require continuous investment and strategic planning.

Empowering Girls

Rwanda has made significant strides in promoting gender equality in education. Since the genocide, the enrolment rate for girls has surpassed that of boys at both primary and secondary levels. This achievement can be attributed to initiatives like the abolition of school fees and the “Twelve Year Basic Education Program,” which guarantees free, quality education for all children. The “Keeping Girls in School” program provides financial aid and mentorship to girls from disadvantaged backgrounds, helping them stay on track for academic success.

READ ALSO: Success Stories in Nigeria’s tourism sector

Notwithstanding, there’s still work to be done. Addressing social norms that may discourage girls from pursuing certain fields of study and ensuring girls complete their education are ongoing efforts.

While Rwanda’s education reform is commendable, challenges persist.  Equipping students with the necessary skills to compete in a globalized job market requires ongoing curriculum adjustments and a focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education. Additionally, ensuring the quality of education across all regions and providing adequate support for students with special needs are crucial aspects to consider.

Rwanda’s education reform serves as a powerful example for other developing nations. The country’s commitment to universal access, quality education, and continuous improvement offers valuable lessons. By prioritizing education and fostering a culture of learning, Rwanda is not just raising the bar for its citizens but also charting a course toward a brighter future.

The post Rwanda: Raising the Bar on Education appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

Despite progress in recent years, women in Africa continue to face significant barriers to leadership and decision-making roles. Deep-rooted gender norms, cultural biases, and structural inequalities often limit women’s access to education, economic opportunities, and political power. Discriminatory practices and patriarchal attitudes persist in many societies, perpetuating gender disparities and hindering women’s advancement in leadership positions.

Moreover, women in Africa frequently encounter systemic challenges such as limited access to resources, unequal pay, and lack of representation in key decision-making bodies. These barriers not only undermine women’s rights and dignity but also deprive societies of the diverse perspectives, talents, and expertise that women bring to leadership roles.

However, despite these challenges, African women are forging ahead, breaking barriers, and carving out paths to leadership through resilience, determination, and collective action.

Ellen Johnson Sirleaf (Liberia)

Ellen Johnson Sirleaf made history as Africa’s first female president when she was elected to lead Liberia in 2006. During her tenure, Sirleaf implemented significant reforms to rebuild Liberia’s war-torn economy, strengthen governance institutions, and promote gender equality. Her leadership earned her international acclaim, including the Nobel Peace Prize in 2011, for her efforts to promote peace and women’s rights in Africa.

Graça Machel (Mozambique)

Graça Machel is a prominent advocate for women’s rights and social justice in Africa. As the former First Lady of Mozambique and South Africa, Machel has been a tireless champion for women’s empowerment, education, and health. She founded the Graça Machel Trust, which works to advance the rights of women and children in Africa through advocacy, research, and capacity building.

Amina J. Mohammed (Nigeria)

Amina J. Mohammed is a Nigerian diplomat and politician who currently serves as the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations. Prior to her current role, Mohammed held various leadership positions in the Nigerian government, including Minister of Environment, where she spearheaded initiatives to address climate change, sustainable development, and women’s empowerment.

Winnie Byanyima (Uganda)

Winnie Byanyima is a Ugandan politician, diplomat, and women’s rights activist who currently serves as the Executive Director of UNAIDS, the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS. Byanyima has dedicated her career to fighting poverty, inequality, and gender-based violence, advocating for the rights of marginalized communities and promoting inclusive development.

Leymah Gbowee (Liberia)

Leymah Gbowee is a Liberian peace activist and Nobel Laureate who played a pivotal role in ending the Second Liberian Civil War. Gbowee led a nonviolent women’s movement called the Women of Liberia Mass Action for Peace, which mobilized thousands of women to demand peace and reconciliation in Liberia. Her leadership and advocacy efforts contributed to the signing of the Accra Comprehensive Peace Agreement in 2003.

Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka (South Africa)

Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka is a South African politician and women’s rights advocate who served as the Executive Director of UN Women. Mlambo-Ngcuka has been a vocal champion for gender equality, economic empowerment, and ending violence against women. Under her leadership, UN Women has launched global initiatives to promote women’s leadership, political participation, and economic empowerment.

Fatoumata Jallow-Tambajang (The Gambia)

Fatoumata Jallow-Tambajang is a Gambian politician and women’s rights activist who played a key role in the democratic transition in The Gambia. As the Minister of Women’s Affairs, Jallow-Tambajang advocated for gender-sensitive policies and programs to promote women’s rights, economic empowerment, and political participation. She was instrumental in the election of Adama Barrow as President of The Gambia in 2016.

Stella Nyanzi (Uganda)

Stella Nyanzi is a Ugandan academic, feminist, and activist known for her fearless advocacy for women’s rights and social justice. Nyanzi gained international attention for her creative protests against government corruption, gender-based violence, and political repression. Despite facing harassment, intimidation, and imprisonment, Nyanzi continues to speak truth to power and inspire others to stand up for their rights.

Sahle-Work Zewde (Ethiopia)

Sahle-Work Zewde made history as Ethiopia’s first female president when she was elected in 2018. As a seasoned diplomat and former United Nations official, Zewde has been a trailblazer for women’s rights and gender equality in Africa. She has championed initiatives to promote women’s leadership, peacebuilding, and sustainable development at the national and international levels.

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie (Nigeria)

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is a renowned Nigerian author, feminist, and cultural critic whose work has had a profound impact on shaping conversations about gender, identity, and power in Africa and beyond. Through her writing and activism, Adichie has challenged stereotypes, advocated for women’s rights, and inspired a new generation of African women to pursue their dreams and aspirations.

These examples represent just a fraction of the countless African women who are leading change, challenging the status quo, and making a difference in their communities and countries. Their stories serve as powerful reminders of the resilience, courage, and tenacity of African women in the face of adversity.

Africa’s journey towards women’s effective leadership is a testament to the transformative power of women’s voices, agency, and leadership. Despite their formidable challenges, African women are breaking barriers, driving progress, and shaping the continent’s future. By empowering women, promoting gender equality, and creating enabling environments for women’s leadership, Africa can unlock its full potential and build a more inclusive, equitable, and prosperous future for all.

The post Africa’s Journey Towards Women’s Effective Leadership appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

The Liberian Leader, in the last few weeks, was Chief Orator at the graduation ceremonies of the Adventist University of West Africa, and the African Methodist Episcopal University, amongst others.

Making special remarks at the GBUC’s 6th Convocation ceremonies Friday, June 17, 2022, at which time First Lady Clar Marie Weah was the keynote speaker, President Weah congratulated the graduates for what he termed ‘milestone achievement,’ and urged them to pursue excellence and develop the sense of self-confidence.

He warned graduates that obtaining the first degree was just the beginning of a long road ahead of them, particularly when they are desirous of pursuing Master’s/PHD levels education.

“This is the first step,” the President told them. “It is left with you to continue or stop here, but I want to encourage you to press for excellence no matter what happens along the way.”

“Now that you have obtained your degrees, you have to step forward for your own wellbeing,” he continued. “There are a lot of jobs. Go forth and seek job opportunities.”

He encouraged the graduates to always keep themselves in the mood of happiness because it is key in overcoming foreseeable and unforeseeable circumstances. He urged them also to be committed and resilient because there is always a way to circumvent any obstacle.

Recalling his administration’s declaration of free tuition in public universities and colleges, including the GBUC, President Weah informed the gathering that the opportunity that the current breed of graduates have to receive external assistance in clearing financial obligations did not exist for others in the past.

He pledged the Government’s continued support to the educational sector in order to provide opportunities for those who do not have opportunities of going to school to do so in order to become productive citizens.

President Weah advised the graduates to believe in themselves and not be carried away by what is said about them, or how others define them.

The President also called on the graduates to put to practice what they acquired, and conduct themselves appropriately in ways that are representative of the college education achieved.
He, as his custom has been in recent years, defrayed the GBUC graduates’ graduation fees.
Over two hundred students received degrees in various fields of discipline, including agriculture, education, nursing, business administration, and accounting, among others.

The Wife of President Weah, First Lady Clar Marie Weah, served as the Commencement Speaker of the 6th Commencement Convocation of the Grand Bassa University College.

It was established during the administration of former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf as a community college but upgraded to full university status under President Weah’s tenure.

(Executive Mansion)

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By Alvin Worzi

President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has called on political parties in the country to increase women’s participation and go beyond what was agreed to with the international community and ensure that at least 35 percent of all opportunities are given to women to enter elections race.

She made the remarks yesterday at the program marking the maiden celebration of the Economic Community of West African States’ (ECOWAS) Human Rights Day at the Monrovia City Hall, which is organized by the ECOWAS and Independent National Commission on Human Rights of Liberia (INCHR).

The program was held under the theme: ‘Promoting and Protecting Women’s Rights towards the Attainment of ECOWAS Vision 2020,’ with the sub theme ‘Women’s Rights in Political Governance and Participation and Women’s Rights in Economy, Empowerment and Development.’

She lauded ECOWAS heads of state for the choice of 16 January of every year to be celebrated as ECOWAS Human Rights Day, which coincides with the day she was inaugurated as President of Liberia.

She also lauded the governments of all member states for providing the enabling environment in which the celebration of ECOWAS Human Rights Day will be held in their respective countries.

Today’s celebration, she said, seeks to strengthen the foundation in the region for an improved effort at enhancing the promotion and protection of rights of ordinary community citizens as entrenched in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, African Chapter on Human and People’s Rights.

President Sirleaf said she believes that the celebration will create the space for political and civil society stakeholders to engage relevant actors involved in the promotion and protection of human rights in the region.

Furthermore, she said “We cannot successfully attain our vision of ECOWAS as a people if we place constraints on the potential of our women, which constitutes more than half of the region’s population. We cannot win if women are left out of the strategic implementation of policies and operational activities which are aimed at enhancing sustainable development of our region.

“With respect to the political and socio-economic rights of women, we urge all our governments in ECOWAS member states to act in the following direction: repeal any discriminatory law that affects the economic viability of women, their ability to get money and own land to move freely and to make decisions about their own bodies and health.”

President Sirleaf said the decision to choose women’s rights as the theme to be celebrated for this year was appropriate, given the critical importance of women’s rights in the realization of ECOWAS’ Vision 2020.

To achieve this, she said, “We must create opportunities for women to get employment in the private sector, create fair wages for women. Companies in the region are encouraged to look at the women’s empowerment scheme, because of an increasing importance of women’s role in peace and security around the globe.

“Introduce measures to protect women’s integrity by preventing tortures, rape, sexual abuse, and exploitation both in armed and non-armed conflict situations. Promote education in training of government agents and law enforcement officers to respect women’s rights.”

She also expressed her sincere gratitude to the other heads of state and ECOWAS for their unwavering support to the regional goal of advancing the promotion of human rights for the benefit of ordinary community citizens.

Ambassador Babatunde O. Ajisomo, ECOWAS Special Representative to Liberia, who read ECOWAS President Marcel de Souza’s statement, said he was delighted and honored to represent the president of ECOWAS Commission.

Ambassador Ajisomo said the celebration places a particular focus on the promotion and protection of women’s rights, which is extended to all areas, including women’s rights in political governance and participation in the economy, empowerment, peace and security, development.

He further said that the ECOWAS Commission has noted with great concern that despite the ratification of numerous regional and international human rights instruments by member states, even to promote the rights of women, significant discrimination against women continues in the region.

Ambassador Ajisomo continued, “This situation does not only violate the principle of equal rights or respect for human dignity but also constitutes an obstacle in the participation of women on equal path with men in the political, social, economic and cultural life of their countries, thereby hindering the realization of an integrated prosperous ECOWAS region.”

Also speaking, Commissioner Bartholomew B. Colley, acting chairperson of the Independent National Commission on Human Rights of Liberia (INCHR), lauded President Sirleaf for the level of work over the years as Africa’s first female president.

He noted that President Sirleaf has created the space to elect women and also promote women’s initiatives, adding that “You will be remembered for promoting women’s agenda and young people.”

The occasion was graced by the Director General of the General Services Agency, Mary T. Broh; Finance Minister Boimah Kamara; Gender Minister Julia Duncan-Cassell; Senator Conmany Wesseh of River Gee County; Charles Saah N’tow, Youth and Sports Minister; Senator Jewel Howard Taylor of Bong County; and Jonathan L. Kaipay of Grand Bassa County, among others.

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By Edward McAllister

West African heads of state began arriving in Gambia on Tuesday to try to convince the long-ruling President Yahya Jammeh to relinquish power after losing an election this month.

Jammeh, who seized power in a coup in 1994 and earned the reputation as a repressive leader, had conceded defeat to opponent Adama Barrow, prompting wild celebrations in the country of 1.8 million after the Dec. 1 election.

However, he changed his mind a week later, citing irregularities in the official results, which were corrected to show a victory margin of fewer than 20,000 votes for Barrow.

Jammeh’s U-turn has prompted sharp criticism from the United States, the United Nations, regional body ECOWAS and even the African Union, which typically takes a softer line.

Diplomats in the region say that if Jammeh seeks to cling to power after negotiations fail, neighbours might consider options for removing him by force. Marcel de Souza, president of the ECOWAS commission, told Radio France International on Monday that sending troops was “a conceivable solution”.

Liberia’s President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, a Noble peace laureate and chair of ECOWAS, was leading the delegation, a statement from her office said.

Nigeria’s Muhammadu Buhari and U.N. Special Representative for West Africa Mohamed Ibn Chambas set off early on Tuesday, witnesses and diplomats said. Ghana’s John Mahama, who lost elections last week and conceded defeat, arrived in Gambia, and Sierra Leone’s Ernest Bai Koroma was due to join the group.

Absent from Tuesday’s delegation is neighbouring Senegal which entirely engulfs the riverside nation and has a history of poor relations with Gambia.

Senegal sent troops there during a coup in 1981 and some officials suspect Jammeh of sponsoring a rebellion in its southern Casamance region. Senegal’s Foreign Ministry called Tuesday’s trip a “last chance mission” for Gambia’s President.

However, the AU said in a statement late on Monday that it also planned to send a high-level delegation led by Chad’s long-ruling President Idriss Deby to facilitate a “peaceful and speedy” transfer of power.

The streets of the capital Banjul were calm on Tuesday, with a high-security presence, witnesses said.

Armed guards surrounded a hotel where the delegation was due to meet Barrow, who has said he would annul Jammeh’s declaration of Gambia as an Islamic republic, later on Tuesday.

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“The size of your dreams must always exceed your current capacity to achieve them. If your dreams do not scare you, they are not big enough”. ELLEN JOHNSON SIRLEAF.

Ellen Johnson Sirleaf is Africa’s first female president and the Current president of Liberia.

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