Women Members of Parliament from across Africa have convened in Kigali for the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) Gender Sensitization Workshop, hosted by the Parliament of Rwanda from 19 to 23 May 2025.
Held under the theme “Promoting Gender Equality and Empowering Women in Africa,” the workshop aims to strengthen the capacity of women legislators and promote gender-responsive governance throughout the continent.
In her opening remarks, Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies Hon. Kazarwa Gertrude, emphasized that political will is the cornerstone of gender equality.
“Once the enabling political framework is in place, mechanisms and gender-responsive legislation must follow to eliminate systemic barriers and ensure that women actively participate in all spheres of national life,” she said.
Hon. Ndangiza Madina, Chairperson of the CWP Africa Region, described the event as a reflection of collective resolve.
“This is more than a meeting of women parliamentarians; it is a demonstration of our shared commitment to advancing gender equality and women’s empowerment,” she said.
Participants are expected engage in dialogue, peer learning, and capacity-building sessions aimed at enhancing their roles as legislators and advocates for inclusive development. The workshop also serves as a platform for experience-sharing and regional collaboration, aligning efforts with continental and global goals for gender equality.
Rwanda, often hailed for its global leadership in women’s representation, takes pride in hosting this significant forum, reaffirming its commitment to inclusive leadership and equitable development across Africa.
