OPINION: STRENGTHENING AFRICAN WOMEN'S PARTICIPATION IN POLITICS

 STRENGTHENING AFRICAN WOMEN'S PARTICIPATION IN POLITICS

 The Past

In pre-colonial Africa, women played significant roles in decision-making and state affairs, despite facing relegation. Exceptional leaders like:

- Madam Tinubu, a Nigerian businesswoman and leader who resisted British colonial rule

- Efunsetan Aniwura, a Yoruba queen who fought against British colonialism

- Queen Amina, a Hausa warrior queen who expanded her kingdom's borders

- Funmilayo Ransome Kuti, a Nigerian women's rights activist and politician

- Cleopatra, the last pharaoh of Ancient Egypt

made notable contributions. However, their stories were often marginalized or forgotten.

The Present

Post-colonial politics in Africa continued to view governance as a male-dominated sphere. Nevertheless, women like:

- Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, the first female president of Liberia and Nobel Peace Prize laureate

- Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the first female Finance Minister of Nigeria and current Director-General of the WTO

are breaking barriers and challenging the status quo.

_Global Women Leaders_

Today, women are leading countries around the world, shattering glass ceilings and paving the way for future generations. Here are some examples:

1. _Sanna Marin, Prime Minister of Finland_

2. _Jacinda Ardern, Prime Minister of New Zealand_

3. _Erna Solberg, Prime Minister of Norway_

4. _Tsai Ing-wen, President of Taiwan_

5. _Kaja Kallas, Prime Minister of Estonia_

6. _Xiomara Castro, President of Honduras_

7. _Giorgia Meloni, Prime Minister of Italy_

8. _Sheikh Hasina, Prime Minister of Bangladesh_

9. _Vjosa Osmani, President of Kosovo_

10. _Salome Zourabichvili, President of Georgia_

In Africa, we've seen trailblazers like Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and Sahle-Work Zewde, but we need more women in leadership positions to drive inclusive development and prosperity.

By learning from global examples and implementing strategies to empower women in politics, Africa can unlock its full potential and create a brighter future for all.

The Future

Internationally, women are increasingly taking center stage in politics. Africa must follow suit. To strengthen African women's participation in politics, we need:

1. Quotas and Affirmative Action: Implement policies ensuring women's representation in government and political parties.

2. Empowerment and Capacity Building: Provide training, mentorship, and resources for women to develop leadership skills.

3. Addressing Socio-Cultural Barriers: Challenge patriarchal norms and stereotypes limiting women's political participation.

4. Supportive Networks and Coalitions: Foster collaborations among women politicians, civil society, and international organizations.

5. Inclusive Political Parties: Encourage parties to adopt gender-sensitive policies and promote women's leadership.

By taking these steps, Africa can unlock the potential of its women leaders, foster inclusive decision-making, and drive sustainable development.