The question of gender mainstreaming has over time been championed and advocated for by civil society groups, gender activists and women’s rights groups world over. It is worthwhile to note that significant strides have been made in the quest for gender equality especially in developing countries, a case in point being Liberia, the first African country to elect a female president.
Although women in both developed and developing countries boast of having experienced a gradual change in attitudes around women’s issues, a chance to be represented and be listened to by one of their own, access to leadership, social amenities and other opportunities is still wanting. This calls for continued policy development, research, advocacy/dialogue, legislation, resource allocation, planning, and implementation of programmes and initiatives that lobby for the inclusion of women in such processes.
Women must not stop pressing for their inclusion in leadership and decision making processes in their respective countries as well as the realization of millennium Development Goals (MDGs). At just five years to the MDGs timeline, many countries lack the political will to make these goals a reality. In Kenya for example, politicians take advantage of the electorate by making pledges based on the MDGs during the election window, but fail to honor the execute them once in office. What’s more? Women exercise their right to vote based on these highly appealing pledges because they want to lead better lives but lack information on their on their rights, hence they fall prey to the politicians trap.
I like to think of the MDG on promotion of gender equity and empowering women as a pillar to the other seven goals. If women are empowered and given the same opportunities in government, education and even employment, child mortality rates will be reduced, primary education will be accessible to all, maternal health will improve and the ultimate goal of poverty eradication will be achieved. Also through combating HIV/Aids, malaria and other diseases, environmental sustainability and global partnership for development will be within reach.
Young people must therefore arise and take lead implementation of laws that protect women’s rights. Women must be included in key legislation processes and especially where the laws wholly affect the women’s well being. Women must arise above household chores and related responsibilities and make their voice heard in development platforms.