Advocating for gender equality is a shared responsibility.

Achieving gender equality requires collective action and commitment from individuals, communities, governments, and organizations. This means that it is not just a women’s issue or a men’s issue—it is in fact a human issue that affects us all. It is everyone's responsibility to promote gender equality in all aspects of life.

This was the central message echoed during the ONE UN event celebrating 30 years of United Nations partnership in Rwanda’s Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment journey attended by UN agencies, Government officials and various Partners. 

While addressing the participants, Minister of Gender and Family Promotion Dr. Valentine Uwamariya reflected on the importance of celebrating women’s achievements, and also highlighted the significant strides that have been made in areas such as education, healthcare, economic empowerment, and political participation, laying a foundation for a more inclusive and equitable society.

The Honorable Minister also pointed out on the importance of equally looking at how to address the existing challenges that still impede the advancement of women and girls. She observed that women and girls continue to face countless challenges, including gender-based violence, limited access to finance, economic inequality, and underrepresentation in decision-making processes. 

“As we look to the future, it is imperative that we deepen our efforts to address these challenges and build a world where every woman and girl can realize and enjoy her full potential. This requires not only constant investment in policies and programs that promote gender equality but also a fundamental shift in attitudes and behaviors towards women and girls” Dr. Valentine Uwamariya, Hon. Minister of Gender and Family Promotion.

The Minister further said “The United Nations has been a steadfast partner in this journey, working hand in hand with the Government, Civil Society, and the Private Sector to advance the rights and opportunities of women and girls across Rwanda. The Government of Rwanda thank you for your transformative partnership”.

Numerous significant accomplishments were showcased through an array of photographs curated from various UN agencies, each addressing diverse sectors and issues. These images vividly depict the tangible results of collaborative efforts across the United Nations system.

They not only celebrate past successes but also inspire continued action towards a more equitable, sustainable, and prosperous future for all.

The United Nations Resident Coordinator Mr. Ozonnia Ojielo, stated that celebrating women is not charity but a right and the right thing to do. Mr. Ojielo added that the UN considers gender equality as a value and principle, enshrined in the UN Charter.

“The story of the women of Rwanda is testament to how women’s determination and resilience are key to reconstruction, resilience, and the sustainable development of a nation. We are pleased to join the Government and people of Rwanda in this recognition and to reaffirm our continued partnership in advancing gender equality and women's empowerment in the country”. He said.

Today, Rwanda stands out across the world for its achievements in advancing women. With 61.3% of its parliamentary seats and 55% of cabinet positions held by women, it has set a high global benchmark on women’s effective participation in decision-making.