Attachments
By: Violla Nabawanda
Abstract
This paper examines the efforts to advance gender equality and empowerment in Africa, focusing on the challenges faced by women and youth and exploring strategic solutions for their development. Despite progress in promoting gender equality and women’s and youth empowerment, significant challenges persist, including high maternal mortality rates, early child marriages, school-going children facing early pregnancies, and the rise of sexual and gender-based violence issues exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic, as highlighted by UN Women. To address these concerns, this paper suggests key strategies such as strengthening legal frameworks, improving services for survivors of violence, and fostering greater collaboration between public and private sectors to enhance the role of women and youth in society. Additionally, the paper explores the concept of gender equality, emphasizing non-discrimination and equal opportunities for all, irrespective of gender. The findings underscore the need for comprehensive stakeholder engagement, advocacy, and integrated gender considerations in national planning forums to rectify gender imbalances and promote sustainable development.