Gov’t and NGOs can work towards prioritizing women’s inclusion in every strata of society

By Annette Ferguson MP- Globally, the world celebrates International Women’s Day, on March 8. A day where recognition is given to women who made their contributions, through sacrifices, commitment and dedication towards development of society and nation building.

The United Nation has set the following objectives for this year’s celebrations of International Women’s Day 2024. There are:

1. Investing in women, a human rights issue.
2. Ending poverty.
3. Implementing gender-responsive financing.
4. Shifting to a green economy and care society.
5. Supporting feminist change-makers.

I believe that those objectives can be achieved, once Government and Non- Governmental Organizations, work towards prioritising in addressing them, with the inclusion of women at every strata.

This year’s theme, “Investing in women: Accelerating Progress.” It is evident that women are no longer homemakers, but are making a difference in every sphere, whether in the field of education, politics, engineering, construction, aviation, serving at executive level and in the oil and gas sector, just to a few.

Despite the many challenges and constraints that are likely to befall women, since many believe that the world we lived is a male dominated one, they persevere and stand the test of time, creating magnificent change in the society, and making positive impacts. In the Guyanese context, they are many young women who are trail blazers, making waves through business investment, managing their own business and company.

Therefore, as we celebrate Women on this spectacular day, let us all embrace each other, let us celebrate one another and continue to be outstanding and serve in your God given gifted talent.

I wish to acknowledge the contributions by all women, whether serving at the community level, regional level and national level. Your efforts have not gone unnoticed. Continue to make the difference! As we celebrate, let us do so with the famous proverb 12:4 verse  of a “virtuous woman.”

Once again, happy International Women’s Day to all!