Women Help Make the World a Better Place
Today is a day when we celebrate women world over. On behalf of the Africa Regional Team I send my message of goodwill and congratulations to all women in and outside Scouting. To our mothers, wives, sisters, daughters - we appreciate all the efforts you put in place to support society - at home, in the workplace, in business, in politics and other aspects of life.
International Women’s Day is call for all of us to strive to forge a more gender-balanced world. A world that celebrates women's achievements, raises awareness against bias and takes action for equality.
As the South African liberationist Steve Biko once said, “Women must be at the forefront of nation-building to bring the (South) African citizenry together, and therefore, develop a whole new ethos of human co-existence.” This clearly highlights role women can play in the realization of a better world, if given the opportunity and support.
Females form over 41% of the total Scout membership and 24% of adult Scout volunteers in the Africa region. We may not have achieved gender parity but within our Vision 2023 strategy, we are constantly working to address this by making Scouting more accessible and sensitive to all.
As a movement, we acknowledge that gender balance is essential for economies and communities to thrive. This is why we partnered with UN Women in the HeForShe gender equality campaign. We call upon all of us, to take the He4She commitment for a more gender-equal world, all the time, everywhere.
I believe that with the involvement and participation of women in all spheres of life, we can achieve a better world for all us. May this celebration of International Women’s Day renew our resolve towards the realization that the greatest pillar to progress and stability lies in strong, free, educated and empowered women. Happy Women’s Day!
Victor Atipaga
Chairman
Africa Scout Committee