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BULAWAYO Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister, Judith Ncube, has said the holistic empowerment of women through education, awareness and collaboration is critical towards their total emancipation in Africa.
Speaking yesterday at the 5th Edition of the Africa Women Summit that is underway in Nairobi, Kenya, Minister Ncube said the world must celebrate the strength and resilience of women, and called for enhanced progress towards women’s health, in particular.
Women’s health is not just a medical issue, said Minister Ncube, but it is a fundamental human right that encompasses physical, mental, emotional, and social well-being.
“For long women’s voices have been silenced, their stories untold, their health overlooked. Today, we are here to say this will end now.
“We are here to amplify voices of women, to share their stories and to demand change in the realm of women’s health. Most importantly, we are advocating for women to be empowered and take control of their health and make informed decisions,” said Minister Ncube.
“Through education, awareness and collaboration, we can create a world where women are empowered to make their own choices, to speak their own truth, and to live their own lives with dignity and respect.”
She urged the delegates to unite and collectively push for equal opportunities for women and commended the summit for providing the platform to challenge societal norms, break barriers, and advocate for policies that prioritise women’s health.
“We know women are the backbone of our communities, the caregivers, the nurturers, and the leaders. Yet, it is only a woman who can commit to put others first and themselves last,” said the minister.
“We must advocate for recognition of women’s lives, their health, and their well-being. Let us celebrate the women who have paved the way for us, women who have fought for our rights and who have inspired us to be what we are today.
“Let us honor their legacy by continuing the good work that they started for us, let us amplify their voices and create a world that is equitable for all.”
Minister Ncube said the journey towards empowering women voices and inspiring change should go beyond public summits but must be lifelong commitment that requires ongoing efforts and dedication.
“I urge you all to be the torch bearers of advocacy and continue the work in your respective communities, organisations and spheres of influence,” she said.
“Together we can create a ripple effect of change that will improve lives of women everywhere. May this summit ignite a fire within all of us to strive for a world where women’s health is a priority, where their voices are heard, and where they have power to shape their own destinies.
“Let’s rise up, let us speak out, and let us demand a world where women’s health and well-being are prioritized, valued and cherished.”
The event is running under the theme: “Women’s Health: Empowering Voices, Inspiring Change.”
Meanwhile, Minister Ncube extended her heartfelt condolences to the Government of Kenya for the lives lost due to current flooding that has swept across East Africa.
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