Violence against women and girls is a critical societal issue not only affects individuals but also causes far-reaching consequences for communities and entire nations. The impact on women and girls is profound and long-lasting.
According to psychosocial experts, survivors often suffer physical injuries, emotional trauma, and psychological distress as a result of the violence they have experienced. This can lead to depression, anxiety, and even post-traumatic stress disorder. In addition, survivors may face stigma and discrimination from their communities, further compounding their trauma. Thus, it is crucial for survivors to receive the support and resources they need to heal and restore their lives.
Recently, a coalition of African civil society organizations and human rights defenders have strongly urged the African Union (AU) member states to swiftly adopt and ratify the AU Convention on ending violence against women and girls.
The coalition, which includes women’s rights advocates and human rights defenders from various AU member countries, called on the heads of state and government to ratify the African Union declaration on the elimination of violence against women and girls.
In a meeting held during the 38th Summit of Heads of State in Addis Ababa, leaders of the civil society organizations emphasized the need for the African Union to demonstrate its commitment to ending violence against women and girls.
They called for the AU to consider the perspectives of affected individuals, advocate for victim compensation, and ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice.
Thelma Awori, Founding Director of the Institute for Social Transformation, underscored the importance of reparations for historical injustices, such as slavery and discrimination, noting the disproportionate impact of these issues on women and girls.
She stressed that fighting sexual exploitation, harassment, and violence must be prioritized on the African Union’s agenda.
The coalition affirmed that the convention aimed at eliminating violence against women and girls seeking to establish a comprehensive legislative framework.
This framework would address protection, prevention, and access to justice, while also recognizing the importance of positive masculinity and community involvement in combating violence.
The organizations also emphasized the need for the decolonization of the African education system to empower individuals and ensure compensation for unpaid care work.
They expressed support for the African Union’s call for justice and reparations for African peoples and those of African descent.
Youth involvement was highlighted as essential to the process, with the organizations stating that waiting for the adoption of legal frameworks and policies addressing violence against women and girls is no longer an option.
Although the African Union has mechanisms in place for conflict prevention and early response, the coalition stressed that adequate funding is critical to address these issues.
They argued that silencing the guns in Africa requires investment in prevention, early conflict warning, and addressing climate, economic, and political crises.
Additionally, they emphasized the importance of arms control, noting that the “Silencing the Guns” campaign aims to reduce gun violence.
Meanwhile, African countries have been urged to ensure gender equality in education amid widespread calls for increased investment in girls’ education across the continent.
The call was made by experts and policymakers attending a high-level dialogue on gender equality in education, held at the African Union (AU) Headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s capital, under the theme “Investing in Girls’ Education Systems as a Form of Reparation, Justice, and Sustainable Development for African Communities.”
The high-level dialogue, held on the sidelines of this year’s 38th AU summit, assessed the status of girls’ education in Africa.
The gathering underscored the necessity of investing in girls’ education as a form of justice and a tool for development, in line with the AU’s 2025 theme of the year: “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations.”
Addressing the meeting, AU commissioner for Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation, Mohamed Belhocine, said there is a pressing need to discuss policy reforms aimed at promoting girls’ education across Africa.
He said that enhancing financial investment in educational systems, developing safe school environments and infrastructure, and ensuring the availability of gender-responsive data and evidence are crucial for improving access to quality education for African girls.
“This year, in line with the AU theme of the year, greater emphasis is placed on education as the cornerstone of an equitable healing and repairing process for long-standing inequalities. It requires us to better understand our past and future socio-cultural and economic environment,” Belhocine said.
A joint report by the AU and the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization on the status of girls’ and women’s education in Africa was launched during the meeting, offering a comprehensive analysis of progress toward achieving inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all.
According to the AU, the gathering serves as a crucial platform for policymakers, experts, and activists to exchange ideas, share successful practices, and develop actionable strategies to address these challenges.
Moreover, ending violence against women and girls requires a multi-faceted approach. Everyone must work to change social norms and attitudes that perpetuate gender-based violence, as well as strengthen laws and policies that protect survivors and hold perpetrators accountable. Regarding this, education plays a critical role in prevention, by teaching children and adults about healthy relationships, consent, and gender equality. Community-based interventions, such as support groups and counseling services, can also provide vital resources to survivors and help them navigate the healing process.
In sum, it is high time to work actively regarding ensuring a suitable environment towards enabling them competitive in their future endeavors. Thus, the organizations stressed that empowering women and girls through education is crucial in ending gender-based violence. They urged the AU to adopt the convention, implement monitoring and reporting mechanisms, and commit to swift ratification and action.
Ending violence against women and girls is a complex but essential task that requires the collective effort of individuals, communities, and governments. By addressing the root causes, supporting survivors, and promoting prevention strategies, it is possible to create a world where women and girls can live free from fear and harm. Together, we can make a difference and build a safer, more inclusive society for all.
BY TEWODROS KASSA
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SUNDAY EDITION 9 MARCH 2025
