INTERSESSION ACTIVITY REPORT
BY
HON. COMMISSIONER JANET RAMATOULIE SALLAH-NJIE
VICE-CHAIRPERSON AND SPECIAL RAPPORTEUR ON THE RIGHTS OF WOMEN IN AFRICA OF THE AFRICAN COMMISSION ON HUMAN AND PEOPLES’ RIGHTS (ACHPR)
PRESENTED AT THE
81st ORDINARY SESSION OF THE ACHPR
Banjul, Gambia
INTRODUCTION
1. Pursuant to Rules 25(3) and 64 of the Rules of Procedure (2020) of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (the Commission) and in alignment with Resolution ACHPR/res.38 (XXV) 99 dated 5 May 1999, I am pleased to present this Report in my capacity as the Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Women in Africa (the SRRWA). This Report also encapsulates my engagements as a Member of the Commission during the period under assessment.
2. This Report is structured into five distinct sections, each delving into various facets of the activities conducted in the intersession period subsequent to the 79th Ordinary Session of the Commission, convened in Banjul, The Gambia, from 14 May to 3 June 2024.
3. The initial section delineates my involvement as a Member of the Commission and a Member of the Bureau, whereas the subsequent section delves into my roles and initiatives as the SRRWA. The third section accentuates the country monitoring endeavors, encompassing the dispatch of letters of urgent appeal addressing human rights transgressions and letters of commendation to specific countries that fall within my purview. The fourth section illuminates the status of women and girls throughout the intersession phase. Lastly, the fifth section encapsulates the conclusions drawn from these activities and observations, proffering recommendations for due consideration.
PART ONE: ACTIVITIES UNDERTAKEN AS A COMMISSIONER AND A MEMBER OF THE BUREAU
A. Benchmarking visit by the ACHPR to the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights
4. From 11 to 16 July 2024, I participated in the aforementioned visit to the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) in Washington, DC, USA. This visit played a critical role in fostering the sharing of best practices between the two institutions, primarily focusing on enhancing their operational methodologies and capabilities in furthering the cause of human rights protection. Moreover, this visit served as a significant platform for the Commission to partake in meaningful dialogues, exchange knowledge, and acquire invaluable insights into the operational structures and exemplary practices of the IACHR.
B. Inter-mechanism cooperation between the IACHR and the ACHPR
5. On 16 July 2024, I participated as a panelist in a discussion centered around the aforementioned theme. This discussion was held on the sidelines of the study visit to the IACHR, adding another layer of depth and insight to exchanging ideas and experiences during this significant engagement.
C. 45th Ordinary session of the Executive Council and 6th Mid-Year Coordination Meeting of the AU and Regional Economic Communities
6. As a member of the Bureau, I was part of the delegation of the Commission to the 45th Ordinary Session of the Executive and the Mid-Year Coordination meeting, held in Accra, Ghana, from the 18th to the 21st of July 2024.
D. Virtual 80th Ordinary Session (Private)
7. From 24 July to 02 August 2024, I participated in the Commission's 80th Ordinary Session (Private), held virtually. This session was dedicated to deliberating on Communications, pending Reports, and other pertinent matters essential to the Commission's mandate and operations.
E. Promotion Mission to The Comoros
8. From 12 to 22 September 2024, I participated in the Promotion Mission in the Union of the Comoros. Throughout the mission, our delegation engaged with diverse stakeholders to delve into discussions concerning the human rights landscape within the country.
F. Participation in the 44th Ordinary Session of the African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (ACERWC)
9. On 2 October 2024, at the Opening Session of the ACERWC, I delivered the Opening Statement on behalf of the Commission's Chairperson. During the session, I took part in a Panel Discussion on State compliance with the ACERWC's monitoring mandate, stressing the Commission's approach via country visits, state report evaluations, compliance assessments with Article 26 of the Maputo Protocol, and adherence to Article 14 of the African Union Convention for the Protection and Assistance of Internally Displaced Persons in Africa (Kampala Convention) considering Communications, amongst other things.
G. State Party Pre-Session Forum
10. From 15 to 16 October 2024, I participated in the State Party Pre-Session Forum in Banjul, The Gambia, convened by the Commission. This forum was organized to provide a platform for State Parties, where the Commission aimed to enhance dialogue, strengthen partnerships, and advocate for a more inclusive approach to human rights discussions and actions within the African context.
11. This initiative underscores the unyielding dedication of the ACHPR to engage with all relevant stakeholders and to foster a comprehensive and participatory framework. This is more so as the National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs) and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) had existing engagement platforms before the Commission's sessions. By recognizing and building upon these established avenues, the ACHPR further solidifies its commitment to inclusivity and collaboration in advancing human rights across the African continent.
PART TWO: ACTIVITIES AS SPECIAL RAPPORTEUR ON THE RIGHTS OF WOMEN IN AFRICA
A. Audience with the Speaker of the National Assembly: Proposed Repeal of the FGM Law and Gender Equality Pushback in The Gambia
12. On 21 June 2024, I convened and facilitated a meeting with the Speaker of the National Assembly alongside the Ad Hoc Committee that was formed during the Roundtable discussion addressing the proposed repeal of The Gambia's Women's Act (2012) during the sidelines of the 79th Ordinary Session on 28 May 2024.
13. This meeting offered Committee members a platform to express their objections to the proposed repeal and provide insights into the immediate and lasting impacts of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). The interaction with the Speaker and the Committee played a vital role in the successful advocacy efforts aimed at preventing the repeal of the Act and influencing the stance of the National Assembly on this critical matter.
B. Meeting Between the SRRWA and the Women, Gender, and Youth Directorate
14. On 4 June and 4 July 2024, respectively, in partnership with the Women, Gender, and Youth Directorate (WGYD), I organized a virtual meeting to explore potential areas for collaboration between our respective offices. The primary goal was to synchronize our initiatives and efficiently pool resources. This meeting yielded significant outcomes by identifying crucial partnership prospects and devising strategies for the coordinated execution of upcoming joint endeavors.
C. 30th anniversary of the mandate of the Special Rapporteur on Violence Against Women and Girls, its Causes and Consequences
15. On 20 June 2024, I participated in a hybrid side event marking the 30th anniversary of the mandate of the Special Rapporteur on Violence Against Women and Girls, its causes, and consequences. This event occurred on the sidelines of the 56th session of the Human Rights Council. The event provided an invaluable platform for deliberating on the evolution of the mandate and for reflecting on the advancements and obstacles encountered within the international human rights landscape.
D. Meetings of the Pan African Parliament Committee on Gender, Family, Youth, and People with Disability
16. From 25 to 28 June 2024, I participated in the Pan-African Parliament (PAP) Committee on Gender, Family, Youth, and People with Disabilities meeting held in Midrand, South Africa, where I delivered a statement. In my speech, I emphasized the challenges encountered by African women and girls, the advancements realized since the inception of the Maputo Protocol, and the setbacks witnessed in safeguarding women's rights. Additionally, I underscored the identification of hotspot countries where violations against women are prevalent and necessitate immediate attention. I also emphasized the critical need for targeted collaboration in essential areas to address these pressing concerns effectively.
E. African Union's 1st Pan-African Conference on Girls' and Women’s Education in Africa
17. From 2 to 5 July 2024, I took part in a Conference hosted by the African Union CIEFFA in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, centered around the theme: "Prioritizing Girls and Women’s Education: A Strategy for Increased Access to Inclusive, Lifelong, Quality, and Relevant Learning in Africa." During this event, on the second day, I delivered an opening statement that addressed the theme of "Tackling Gender-Based Violence (GBV) for Greater Access and Completion of Girls in Education."
F. Meeting between the SRRWA and the Inter-American Commission of Women
18. On 10 July 2024, during the Benchmarking Visit to the IACHR, I met with the delegation from the Inter-American Commission of Women on the sidelines of the visit. The objective of this meeting was to facilitate a vibrant exchange of perspectives and tactics. Our discussions revolved around advancements and obstacles related to women's rights in the Americas and Africa, specifically focusing on critical issues like child marriage, reproductive health rights, and the complexities of intersectionality. Furthermore, we emphasized the significance of fortifying regional and global collaborations, including active involvement with platforms and institutions dedicated to promoting and safeguarding women's rights.
G. Panel Discussion on the Elimination of Violence Against Women Convention
19. On 15 July 2024, I participated in a panel discussion by GIMAC to deliberate on the Convention on the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls. In my contribution, I delved into topics concerning the ratification, domestication, and monitoring of the Convention, leveraging insights drawn from experiences with the Maputo Protocol. I underscored the necessity for the Convention to incorporate accountability mechanisms and spotlighted the potential challenges that could arise during its execution and enforcement.
H. The African Union Women and Youth Financial and Economic Inclusion (WYFEI) 2030 Initiative Presidential Breakfast meeting
20. On the margins of the 6th Mid-Year Coordination Meeting on the 20th of July 2024, I attended the above meeting at the invitation of the WGYD. The breakfast acted as a platform for partners to report on the significant progress made toward women and youth financial and economic inclusion and to engender the commitment of other partners to the initiative.
I. Press Statement on the occasion of the Pan-African Women’s Day
21. On 31 July 2024, in observance of Pan-African Women’s Day, marked under the theme "Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress," I released a Press Statement underscoring the critical significance of investing in women as both a moral obligation and a strategic imperative for societal progress. The Statement emphasized the pivotal role of quality education for all individuals, emphasizing the educational empowerment of girls and women.
J. High-Level Panel
22. On the 3 August 2024, I participated, virtually, on a High-Level Panel as part of celebrations hosted by PAWO in Windhoek, Namibia, on the theme “62yrs Later- Where are we?”. During the deliberation, we highlighted and took stock of the strides made in advocating women’s rights and policies promoting women’s and girls’ education since 1962 and the pioneering role of PAWO in promoting women’s rights.
K. Roundtable on Implementing the Maputo Protocol and Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights in African States
23. From 5 to 7 August 2024, I hosted a Roundtable in Banjul, The Gambia, coordinated by the Centre for Human Rights, University of Pretoria, centered on the mentioned theme. Delegates from 13 countries—The Gambia, Angola, Eswatini, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Uganda, Sierra Leone, South Sudan, Botswana, Ghana, South Africa, Liberia, and Malawi—participated in the event. The Roundtable served as a platform for these states to deliberate on the obstacles encountered in implementing the Maputo Protocol, particularly concerning sexual and reproductive rights, and to exchange insights on successful strategies and practices.
L. Capacity Building Workshop for Members of the National Assembly of The Gambia on Advocacy and Strategic Planning on Ending Violations of the Rights of Women and Girls in the Gambia, in line with Regional Frameworks
24. On 10 August 2024, with the support of UN Women, I organized a Capacity Building Workshop in Banjul focused on the aforementioned theme, specifically targeting members of the National Assembly and the Ad Hoc Committee. The workshop was designed to provide Members of the National Assembly with the knowledge, skills, and resources to formulate evidence-based policies and advocate for gender equality laws. Additionally, the event aimed to enhance the capabilities and expertise of the Ad Hoc Committee, empowering them to sustain their advocacy endeavors in their respective capacities effectively.
M. Hybrid Event focused on popularizing the Maputo Protocol in Somalia
25. On 18 September 2024, the Senior Legal Officer supporting my mandate, Ms. Irene Mbengue, represented me at a Hybrid Event promoting awareness of the Maputo Protocol in Somalia organized by SIHA Network. She delivered the keynote address on my behalf, highlighting the benefits of ratifying the Maputo Protocol and presenting compelling reasons for Somalia to consider ratification. The current status of ratification in Somalia was discussed, along with an overview of the challenges and opportunities inherent in this process. Moreover, insights were shared on countries that have excelled in the domestication and implementation of the Protocol, providing valuable lessons and best practices for Somalia to leverage in its pursuit of ratification and effective implementation.
N. Press Statement on the alleged sexual harassment against the Bilingual Secretary of the PAP
26. On 20 September 2024, I issued a Press statement on behalf of the Commission regarding the allegations of sexual harassment involving a Bilingual Secretary of the PAP, reportedly at the hands of the former President of the PAP. The Statement called upon the AU Commission to initiate a comprehensive investigation into these sexual harassment allegations. It stressed the crucial need to uncover the truth to hold the responsible parties accountable and ensure justice.
27. Furthermore, the Press Statement emphasized the immediate implementation of measures to secure the safety and well-being of the victim. Instead of receiving the necessary support following such a traumatic experience, the victim reportedly faced threats. The statement underscored that ensuring the victim's safety and providing the support she deserves is paramount in addressing this distressing situation and upholding principles of justice and accountability.
O. Joint Press Statement on Global Day of Action for Access to Safe and Legal Abortion.
28. On 28 September 2024, in partnership with the Solidarity for African Women’s Rights (SOAWR) Coalition, I published a Statement on the Global Day of Action for access to safe and legal abortion. The call to action urged all Member States to establish laws and policies that enable affordable, accessible, and safe abortion, aligning with the Maputo Protocol while lifting reservations on Article 14 (2). Furthermore, the statement implored various actors, including Judiciaries, Parliaments, religious and community leaders, and politicians, to wield their influence in upholding women's sexual and reproductive health and rights, specifically advocating for access to safe and legal abortion.
29. State Parties were urged to guarantee the availability, accessibility, and affordability of sexual and reproductive health services, including abortion, for all women and girls, irrespective of their socio-economic backgrounds. Emphasizing the importance of prioritizing socio-economic rights, State Parties were called upon to improve women's access to sexual and reproductive services. The Statement stressed the necessity for State Parties to engage with stakeholders, exchanging information and best practices to eliminate barriers that hinder women's access to safe and legal abortion.
P. The Ideation Workshop on Strengthening Strategic Litigation on Women’s and Girls’ Rights in the African Human Rights System
30. From 30 September to 1 October 2024, I participated in a workshop organized by GIZ, delivering opening remarks that acknowledged the challenges in our shared quest for justice and equality for women and girls. I highlighted the pivotal roles of the Commission, the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights, and the ACERWC in advancing human rights across the continent. I reiterated that, despite our efforts, the journey of litigating women's rights has been hindered by various obstacles, such as limited awareness of women's rights laws, inadequate resources for legal representation, cultural barriers, gender stereotypes in legal decision-making, and complexities in navigating overlapping jurisdictions within pan-African human rights bodies.
31. I stated that overcoming these challenges necessitates collaborative efforts to enhance legal literacy, increase resources for gender-sensitive legal services, challenge cultural norms perpetuating gender disparities, advocate for gender-responsive judicial training, and improve coordination among these entities to protect the rights of women and girls in Africa effectively. Addressing the complexities of litigating women's rights requires a holistic strategy integrating legal, social, and institutional approaches.
Q. Child Rights Forum on African Children’s Charter
32. On 3 October 2024, I participated in a panel discussion on harmful practices and violence against children during the Child Rights Forum in Maseru, Lesotho. During the panel, I spoke about how harmful practices continue to undermine the rights of women and children on the African continent. I discussed the State obligations arising from the Maputo Protocol and the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child, as elaborated in the two Joint General Comments by the Commission and the ACERWC. The Joint General Comments on child marriage and female genital mutilation encourage Member states to set up legislative and administrative measures to identify, rectify, and bring justice to potential and actual victims of harmful practices.
33. I also encouraged Member States to ensure the domestication of the two instruments to make implementation easier. On implementation, I emphasized the need for a multi-sectoral approach to dealing with harmful practices, especially targeting the traditional leaders and communities in which the children live, as a strategy to eliminate the practices.
PART THREE: COUNTRY MONITORING
A. The Republic of The Gambia
Letter of Commendation about the Government’s Commitment to Uphold the Criminalization of FGM in the Republic of the Gambia
34. On 12 July 2024, together with the Country Rapporteur for the Human Rights Situation in The Gambia, we sent a Letter of Commendation to His Excellency, Hon. Adama Barrow, recognizing the government's steadfast commitment to upholding the criminalization of FGM in The Gambia. In the letter, we expressed gratitude for His Excellency's State of the Nation address on 27 June 2024, which reiterated the administration's resolve to enforce the ban on FGM and endorsed the Private Member's Bill advocating for a 30% governance quota to promote affirmative action.
Joint Press Statement: The National Assembly’s Rejection of the Proposed Amendment to the Women’s (Amendment) Act 2015, aimed at Decriminalizing FGM in Gambia
35. On 16 July 2024, in collaborating with the Country Rapporteur for the Human Rights Situation in The Gambia, the Special Rapporteur on Child Marriage and Other Harmful Practices, and the Country Rapporteur for The Gambia of the African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child, we jointly released a Press Statement applauding the National Assembly for dismissing the Women’s Amendment Bill seeking to legalize FGM. The statement commended those who opposed the repeal and urged for enhanced awareness efforts to enlighten proponents of the repeal about the immediate and enduring repercussions of FGM.
B. The Republic of Sierra Leone
Joint Letter of Commendation and Appreciation for the Enactment of the Law Prohibiting Child Marriage in the Republic of Sierra Leone
36. On 23 July 2024, as the SRRWA, alongside the Country Rapporteur for the Human Rights Situation in the Republic of Sierra Leone, we sent a Letter of Commendation to His Excellency, Hon. President Julius Maada Bio, acknowledging the Government's legislative strides in combatting child marriage within Sierra Leone. Our letter lauded the enactment of the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, which prohibits marriages and cohabitation involving individuals aged 18 years and younger. This law empowers child brides to dissolve their marriages and ensures provisions for their financial compensation.
C. Islamic Republic of Mauritania
Joint Press Statement on the death of more than 25 migrants off the coast of Nouakchott
37. On 31 July 2024, in my role as the SRRWA, in collaboration with the Special Rapporteur on Refugees, Asylum Seekers, Internally Displaced Persons, and Migrants in Africa, we jointly issued a Press Statement concerning the tragic shipwreck of a pirogue carrying around 300 migrants off the coast of Nouakchott, in the Islamic Republic of Mauritania. Within the statement, we expressed profound concern regarding the rising number of migrant disappearances across various circumstances. We urged States to take decisive action to confront the escalating frequency of such incidents.
D. Federal Republic of Somalia
Joint Letter of Urgent Appeal regarding the Official Information Bill
38. On 27 August 2024, as the Country Rapporteur for the Human Rights Situation in the Federal Republic of Somalia, in collaboration with the Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Expression and Access to Information in Africa, we dispatched an urgent appeal letter to H.E. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, President of the Federal Republic of Somalia. The letter raised apprehensions regarding specific provisions in the Official Information Bill (OIB) that seem to contravene international and regional human rights norms concerning the right to access information, as delineated in the Commission’s Model Law on Access to Information for Africa and the Declaration of Principles on Freedom of Expression and Access to Information in Africa.
E. Republic of Namibia
Letter of Commendation for becoming the first country in Africa – and the first high-burden country in the world - to reach a significant milestone on the path towards eliminating vertical mother-to-child transmission of HIV and viral Hepatitis B
39. On 20 September 2024, in my capacity as the Country Rapporteur for Namibia, along with the Chairperson of the Committee on the Protection of the Rights of People Living with HIV and those at Risk, Vulnerable to and Affected by HIV in Africa, we conveyed a letter of commendation to His Excellency Nangolo Mbumba, President of the Republic of Namibia, for achieving a significant milestone in the elimination of vertical mother-to-child transmission of HIV and viral Hepatitis B. We highlighted this accomplishment as a beacon for other African nations to follow. Namibia's success underscores that with political will, collaborative efforts, resource allocation, and adequate healthcare strategies, the health and rights of citizens can be safeguarded. Building upon this achievement can propel Namibia further, leading to even more significant advancements in public health. By leveraging this progress, Namibia prioritizes its people's well-being and is crucial in advancing broader regional health objectives across the African continent.
PART FOUR: BRIEF OVERVIEW OF THE SITUATION OF WOMEN AND GIRLS IN AFRICA
40. During the intersession period, I noted the following developments and concerns on the situation of women on the continent:
Climate change and natural disasters
41. Climate change remains a persistent threat to lives and livelihoods across the continent, with women and girls bearing a disproportionate impact. They face heightened vulnerabilities due to disrupted services like reproductive healthcare and compromised food security in the wake of natural disasters. In July, UNFPA reported that the floods in Cameroon severely impacted the Mayo-Tsanaga and Logone-and-Chari Divisions, leading to the isolation of health services and tragically resulting in the loss of two maternal lives. In the same month, floods hit the Segou region of Mali and affected 9700 people. 67% of them were women and children, such that emergency obstetric care services had to be deployed. Women and children were also affected in Western and Southern Chad owing to floods that displaced thousands of people from their homes. The El Nino rains in Burundi have caused Lake Tanganyika to flood surrounding communities, resulting in 239000 displaced people. This has also caused unimaginable strife for the women and children in the area who are unable to access clean water and sanitation, which has resulted in waterborne diseases like cholera and malaria. Lack of services is also forcing women and girls to resort to using old clothes during their period, which, compounded with the lack of clean water, puts them at risk of infections.
Conflict Zones
42. The persistent conflicts on the continent exacerbate existing challenges, particularly in regions grappling with poverty. The humanitarian crisis in Sudan stands out as a significant concern, ranking among the most severe globally. Over 255,000 pregnant women have been displaced, while a staggering 611,000 pregnant women are confronted with acute hunger, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive humanitarian intervention and support in the region. In September of this year (2024), an armed group attacked a health center in Fende 2, western Lac Province in Chad. Apart from disrupting health service provision, the armed group also abducted two female health workers.
Femicide
43. We should all be outraged at the unsettling news of women being killed across the continent. In August 2024, Nigeria, Christina Odowu, a university student, was kidnapped and killed in August after the kidnappers demanded a ransom from her family. In the same month in South Africa, Nombulelo Bhixa and Minenhle Ngcobo were brutally gunned down and killed on the street. In September, the death of Rebecca Cheptegei, the Uganda Olympic athlete from her ex-partner setting her up on fire, sent shock waves across the world. We cannot simply stand back and watch women being brutally killed in such a senseless manner.
Central Africa Republic
44. I congratulate the Central Africa Republic for adopting a National Strategy to end child marriage from 2024-2027. Child marriage is one of the harmful practices that is violating the rights of girls and women on the continent; therefore, robust programming is required to fight it. I urge the Central Africa Republic government to ensure adequate budget allocations towards implementing the strategy.
Democratic Republic of Congo
45. I applaud the Government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) for its historic decision to appoint Judith Suminwa Tuluka as the first female Prime Minister of the country. This ground-breaking achievement not only signifies a significant leap forward in promoting gender equality in the DRC's leadership but also stands as a remarkable testament to the nation's dedication to empowering women in the political and public spheres. Her appointment is poised to enhance the leadership and governance of the DRC significantly, setting a crucial precedent for the future.
Eswatini
46. Eswatini's proactive efforts in curbing HIV infections among women are commendable. The recent introduction of the dapivirine ring, a women-controlled HIV prevention product, marks a significant step towards empowering women in the realm of HIV prevention. Recognizing the prevalent unequal power dynamics in many relationships and the limited negotiating capacity of women, this product enables women to take charge of their protection against HIV, aligning with the principles outlined in Article 14 of the Maputo Protocol. It is crucial that the government of Eswatini ensures equitable access and availability of this product to all women, irrespective of their economic and social standing, to effectively combat the spread of HIV and promote women's health and autonomy.
Ghana
47. I would like to congratulate the government of Ghana for passing the Affirmative Action (Gender Equality) Act of 2024 on 30 July 2024. The introduction of this new law in Ghana marks a significant stride towards fostering gender equality across various facets of Ghanaian society, encompassing political, social, economic, educational, and cultural domains. By promoting gender equality in these crucial areas, the law sets a foundation for empowering women and advancing inclusivity and fairness within Ghanaian society.
Gambia
48. At the last public session, I raised concerns about the potential reversal of the ban on FGM in The Gambia. I am pleased to extend my congratulations to the National Assembly of The Gambia for decisively voting against this reversal, thereby affirming and upholding the fundamental right of women to be safeguarded from the practice of FGM. This stance reflects a crucial step in prioritizing the well-being and rights of women in The Gambia.
49. Moving forward, it is imperative for the government to focus on effectively implementing this law to eradicate the practice of FGM in The Gambia. Sustaining momentum is critical, and this necessitates ongoing capacity-building initiatives, particularly at the grassroots level, to ensure that the ban is enforced and that efforts to eliminate FGM are comprehensive and enduring. By prioritizing implementation and investing in continuous education and empowerment programs, The Gambia can make significant progress in eradicating this harmful practice and advancing the rights and well-being of women and girls.
50. I would like to take this moment to congratulate the Ad Hoc Committee for their dedicated advocacy efforts, the development partners who provided invaluable support, with a special mention to UN Women, and all stakeholders who played a role in this significant achievement. Through collaborative efforts and unwavering dedication, milestones like upholding the ban on FGM in The Gambia are reached.
Namibia
51. I commend the legislative progress in Namibia for its significant strides in eliminating vertical mother-to-child transmission of HIV and viral Hepatitis B. This accomplishment not only underscores a dedication to public health but also exemplifies a strong commitment to upholding human rights within the country.
Sierra Leone
52. The implementation of the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act 2024 Sierra Leone marks a watershed moment in advancing child rights. This legislation signifies a significant stride in protecting children's rights and dismantling harmful practices, showcasing a steadfast dedication to the welfare and security of children in Sierra Leone. I urge the government to engage proactively with all stakeholders, notably traditional leaders, to guarantee the effective enforcement of the law and to cultivate a deep understanding within the community regarding the perils associated with child marriage.
South Africa
53. I want to congratulate the Republic of South Africa for appointing its first female Chief Justice, Justice Mandisa Maya. It is truly inspiring to witness a woman leading such a crucial institution dedicated to upholding justice, and I wish her success during her tenure.
54. However, it is disheartening to observe a decrease in women's representation from 49% to 43% following the 2024 general elections in the country. At a time when there should be a positive trajectory towards increased female representation in politics, this decline is concerning. I urge the government of South Africa to enact legislation that ensures women's equal representation across all levels of governance, not solely limited to national elections. Upholding and promoting gender equality in political representation is essential for fostering a more inclusive and diverse democracy.
Ratification, Domestication, Implementation, and Reporting of the Maputo Protocol
55. During the intersession, there were no new ratifications. I wish to urge once again the 10 outstanding states—Burundi, Central African Republic, Chad, Egypt, Eritrea, Madagascar, Morocco, Niger, Somalia, and Sudan—to ratify the treaty. It is essential for all Member States to fulfill their obligation to submit reports on the implementation of the Maputo Protocol. Some States that have ratified the Protocol have yet to submit a report despite this being a stipulated obligation under Article 26.
56. Ratification implies a commitment to adhere to the treaty's provisions, and reporting is a fundamental aspect of this commitment. Moreover, Member States should ensure that adequate budgetary allocations are made to support programs that facilitate the implementation of the Maputo Protocol. Mere ratification and the enactment of laws and policies are insufficient if the gender machinery and related sectors responsible for operationalizing the Protocol's provisions lack the necessary resources to execute these programs effectively.
PART FIVE: CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
RECOMMENDATIONS
To the Member States experiencing natural disasters
57. I recommend that Member States grappling with extreme weather events and flooding, such as Burundi, Cameroon, and Chad, establish comprehensive disaster response plans that prioritize the well-being of women and girls disproportionately impacted by such crises. Ensuring these plans include measures specifically tailored to address the unique vulnerabilities women and girls face during emergencies is crucial.
58. I also appeal to development partners to consistently support these regions, focusing on mitigating the risks women and girls face. This support should encompass providing essential services like sexual and reproductive health care and establishing mechanisms for safeguarding against gender-based violence. By prioritizing the needs of women and girls in disaster response efforts, we can work towards building more resilient and gender-inclusive communities in the face of environmental challenges.
To the Member States in Conflict zones
59. I urge these Countries to;
• Take proactive measures to uphold women's rights in conflict situations, emphasizing the inclusion of women in peacekeeping processes and enabling them to make substantial contributions.
• Investigate and prosecute reported cases of violence against women, particularly instances of conflict-related sexual violence.
• Ensure that perpetrators of such violence are held accountable for their actions.
• Guarantee access to essential humanitarian services, including sexual and reproductive health products and other critical services, for women, girls, vulnerable populations in conflict zones, and internally displaced persons.
60. By prioritizing these actions, countries can work towards fostering a safer and more inclusive environment where the rights and well-being of women and girls are protected and upheld, even amid conflict and crisis.
On femicide
61. I urge all the Member States of the African Union to:
• Engage communities in conflict resolution processes that consider gendered aspects and the unequal power dynamics pervasive in society.
• Address toxic masculinities and involve men and boys in discussions concerning their relationships with women and girls, fostering a culture of respect and equality.
• Investigate and prosecute perpetrators of femicide with a strong deterrent effect, sending a clear message that such crimes will not be tolerated and ensuring justice for the victims.
62. By prioritizing these actions, Member States can work towards creating societies where gender-based violence is confronted head-on, harmful gender norms are challenged, and justice is served to combat the pervasive issue of femicide.
To the Governments of Central Africa Republic and Ghana
63. While acknowledging the commendable legal and policy reforms, I strongly urge governments to prioritize implementing sufficient public education programs. These initiatives are essential to ensure that the general populace is well-informed about the implications of these new laws and policies. Additionally, I emphasize the importance of allocating adequate budgetary resources to effectively implement these reforms, as education and awareness are critical components in fostering understanding and compliance within society.
CONCLUSION
64. In conclusion, I wish to extend my heartfelt appreciation to the Member States that have ratified the Maputo Protocol, showcasing their dedication to advancing gender equality and women's rights. I applaud those who have taken substantial steps in adopting and effectively enforcing the Protocol's provisions, thereby making concrete strides in safeguarding the rights of women and girls.
65. I want to express profound gratitude to all stakeholders and partners who have steadfastly supported the SRRWA mechanism over the past 25 years. Through our combined efforts and collaborative spirit, we have achieved significant progress in promoting gender equality, empowering women, and advocating for the rights and well-being of all individuals. Together, we can continue our journey towards creating a fairer and more just world for everyone while contributing to the goals outlined in the African Union's Agenda 2063.
