International Women’s Day is commemorated on the 8th of March annually. It is a worldwide celebration of women’s social, economic, cultural, and political achievements. The day also serves as a rallying cry for greater gender equality. Worldwide, there is a lot of activity as people come together to celebrate women’s achievements or to rally for women’s equality.
The United Nations emphasises that it is a day when women’s achievements are celebrated regardless of national, ethnic, linguistic, cultural, economic, or political boundaries. Since its inception, International Women’s Day has taken on a new global dimension for women in both developed and developing countries.
It is a time to reflect on progress made, to advocate for change, and to honor ordinary women who have played extraordinary roles in the history of their countries and communities.
Although the world has made unprecedented progress, no country has achieved gender equality.
The theme for this is, “DigitALL: Innovation and technology for gender equality,” it highlights the role of innovative technology in promoting gender equality and meeting the health and developmental needs of women and girls.
World Health Organisation Regional Director for Africa, Dr Matshidiso Moeti had this to say about the theme:
” Globally, the increasing number and use of mobile phones and internet connectivity have facilitated access to health information and services. The adoption of digital health and other technological innovations has positively impacted electronic medical records, health data management, security, and effective communication between health workers, patients, and community stakeholders.
In December 2018, we organized the first WHO Africa Innovation Challenge. It was a deliberate effort to find solutions to Africa’s unmet health needs and recognize home-grown innovations that could solve Africa’s health challenges.
Nevertheless, we must do more to remove the digital gender divide, mainly impacting vulnerable women and girls, especially those in rural and remote areas with low education and socioeconomic status.
As we celebrate International Women’s Day, I urge all stakeholders—from governments and partners to civil society and citizens—to support country-driven and gender-sensitive approaches to close the existing digital gender divide,” read her letter to colleagues and partners.
If you’re reading this, Happy International Women’s Day!
Also see: https://www.bona.co.za/lifestyle/why-its-not-selfish-to-choose-yourself/
