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By Raine St.Claire
According to the 2023 World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report, only about 68% of the gap between men and women has been closed.
At this pace, achieving full gender equality could take another 132 years, with the projected year for equality being 2154.
These statistics are clear and indicative that urgent action is needed to accelerate change
The African Centre for the Constructive Resolution of Disputes (ACCORD) reports that only 30 countries (66.67%) have improved gender parity, while 15 countries (33.33%) saw a decline between 2013 and 2021.
Although full gender parity remains elusive, the top 10 economies have closed at least 80% of their gender gaps, with Iceland leading at 90.8%. In sub-Saharan Africa, Rwanda (81.1%, 6th) and Namibia (80.7%, 8th) are notable for narrowing their gender gaps.
Despite these gains, women in Africa continue to make significant contributions to both informal and formal economies and generations of women are demanding swifter action.
“There is no force equal to a woman determined to rise.” Louisa Mojela, CEO, WIPHOLD South Africa
As Human Rights Month concludes, it’s crucial to honour these remarkable women and countless others dedicated to forging paths for future generations. They challenge norms and create opportunities where none existed before.
We spotlight a few of these phenomenal women whose impact is profound; their legacy enduring.
(*The list follows no particular order)
Dr Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka: Chair, International Olympic Committee (IOC) Advisory Committee on Human Rights| South Africa
Phumzile’s career is characterised by her unwavering dedication to promoting human rights, equality, and social justice. Her journey from the first democratically-elected South African Parliament to becoming the Chairperson of the International Olympic Committee’s Advisory Committee on Human Rights speaks volumes about her impact and influence on a global scale. As the former Executive Director of UN Women, she played a pivotal role in advancing gender equality worldwide. Her leadership continues to inspire women to pursue leadership roles and advocate for change.
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“In 50 years, we should not be talking about female leaders, we should just be talking about leaders. There should be a representation of women at higher echelons as a norm. Both men and women should play an equal role in leadership with no spotlight on women. This is what we are working towards.”
Phuthi Mahanyele-Dabengwa: CEO, Naspers South Africa
Phuthi’s groundbreaking achievements in the tech industry defy gender stereotypes and highlight the importance of diversity in leadership. As the CEO of Naspers South Africa, she shattered glass ceilings, becoming the first black woman executive to lead the company. Her dedication to empowering young entrepreneurs through initiatives like Naspers Labs underscores her commitment to fostering innovation and economic growth. Representing a small segment of women who continue to grow in this industry, Phuthi continues to uplift women and young entrepreneurs across South Africa. Her leadership serves as a beacon of hope for women aspiring to succeed in traditionally male-dominated sectors.
Nolitha Fakude: President, Minerals Council South Africa and Group Director, Anglo-American plc South Africa
From serving as Executive Director at Sasol Limited to becoming the President of the Minerals Council South Africa, Nolitha’s remarkable career trajectory exemplifies her leadership prowess and resilience. As a trailblazer in the male-dominated mining industry, she has championed diversity and inclusion, advocating for women’s representation in leadership positions. Her strategic insights and extensive experience in various sectors make her a respected figure in the corporate world, driving positive change and paving the way for future generations of female leaders.
Dr Helena Ndume Head, Ophthalmology Department at Windhoek Central Hospital, Namibia
Helena’s transformative work has earned her international recognition and admiration. Her journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of Namibia’s foremost ophthalmologists reflects her unwavering commitment to restoring sight and changing lives. Through her pioneering efforts, she has provided thousands of blind individuals with free surgeries, offering them a newfound sense of hope and independence.
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Tsitsi Dangarembga: Author, Playwright, and Filmmaker, Zimbabwe
Tsitsi’s contributions to literature and filmmaking have earned her international acclaim as a pioneering voice in African storytelling. With groundbreaking works like “Nervous Conditions” and “This Mournable Body,” she has challenged societal norms and shed light on the complexities of the human experience. Dangarembga’s commitment to artistic expression and social activism continues to inspire audiences around the world, cementing her legacy as a literary icon and cultural trailblazer.
Louise Mushikiwabo: Secretary General, Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie, Rwanda
Louise’s leadership reflects her dedication to promoting Francophone solidarity and cooperation on the global stage. With a background in diplomacy and international relations, she has advocated for multilateralism and dialogue as essential tools for addressing global challenges. Louise’s tenure at the helm of the OIF has seen increased collaboration among Francophone countries, contributing to peace, stability, and development across the Francophonie.
Dr. Matshidiso Moeti: Regional Director, World Health Organisation (WHO) Africa, Botswana
With over 38 years of experience in the field of public health, Matshidiso’s commitment to advancing public health and healthcare delivery across the continent is undeniable. She has led efforts to strengthen health systems, improve disease surveillance and enhance access to essential health services. Her leadership at WHO Africa has been instrumental in addressing health challenges and promoting health equity, making her a respected figure in the global health community.
Arunma Oteh: Chair, Royal African Society, Nigeria
Arunma’s distinguished career includes serving as Treasurer and Vice President of the World Bank where she has been a leading voice in advocating for financial inclusion and sustainable development. Her unwavering leadership continues to inspire positive change in Africa and beyond, making her a respected figure in the fields of finance and international relations.
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Nomhle Maggie Mliswa: CEO, Summerhill Farms, Zimbabwe
Nomhle has championed initiatives to promote sustainable farming practices and empower local communities. Her commitment to agricultural excellence and social impact has earned her recognition as a leading figure in Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector. In December 2022, Nomhle was awarded an honorary doctorate in humane letters for her philanthropy by the International Institute of Philanthropy in partnership with the International Women University.
Irene Charnley: Chair, Gibela Rail Transport Consortium, South Africa
Irene’s role underscores her leadership in driving infrastructure development and economic growth in South Africa. With a background in social entrepreneurship and business leadership, she has spearheaded efforts to modernise South Africa’s rail transportation system and create opportunities for local communities. Irene’s vision and strategic leadership continue to shape the future of transportation in South Africa, making her a respected figure in the infrastructure sector.
Alda Salomão: Environmental Lawyer, Human Rights Activist, Land Specialist, Mozambique
As an environmental lawyer and human rights activist, Alda has advocated for the rights of marginalised communities and worked to hold corporations and governments accountable for environmental degradation. Her tireless advocacy and expertise in land governance have earned her recognition as a champion for sustainable development and human rights.
Amina J Mohammed: Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, Nigeria
With a background in environmental advocacy and public service in Nigeria, Amina underscores her commitment to advancing global cooperation and sustainable development. She has been a leading voice for climate action and social justice. Her leadership at the UN has been instrumental in driving progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals and promoting inclusive and equitable development worldwide.
“The diversity piece has lost its meaning, because we’ve sort of pigeonholed different parts of our society that are different, and will choose to live differently. And what we need to see is healthy respect, and that these are the threads of our human fabric. And as such, each thread matters, each thread makes the fabric stronger, not weaker. So the less threads we have, that we leave behind, the weaker that fabric. And I think if you say that to people, then they see themselves in the fabric.” – Amina Mohammed
Source: World Economic Forum｜ Engineering News ｜Forbes
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