Africa liberation day: A borderless Africa uniting against femicide

Celebrating African leader who championed against femicide

Africa liberation day: A borderless Africa uniting against femicide

In the heart of our vibrant and diverse continent lies a pressing issue that demands our collective action: femicide. This heinous crime, the intentional killing of women because of their gender, is a stark reminder of the deep-seated gender inequality and violence that persist across Africa. As we march towards a more progressive and united Africa in the 21st century, it is imperative that we address this menace head-on.

Several African leaders, activists, and prominent figures have made significant contributions to the fight against femicide and gender-based violence across the continent. As we commemorate Africa Liberation Day, below are African leaders who championed against femicide:

Graça Machel (Mozambique/South Africa)

Graça Machel is a renowned humanitarian and advocate for women's and children's rights. As the former First Lady of Mozambique and South Africa, she has used her platform to speak out against gender-based violence and femicide. Through the Graça Machel Trust, she works to empower women and promote gender equality across Africa.

Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka (South Africa)

Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka is the former Executive Director of UN Women and a former Deputy President of South Africa. She has been a vocal advocate for women's rights and gender equality, focusing on ending violence against women and girls. During her tenure at UN Women, she launched initiatives to combat femicide and support survivors of gender-based violence.

Wangari Maathai (Kenya)

The late Wangari Maathai, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, was an environmental and political activist who also championed women's rights. As the founder of the Green Belt Movement, she not only focused on environmental conservation but also on empowering women and addressing issues of violence and inequality.

Ellen Johnson Sirleaf (Liberia)

Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, the first female President of Liberia and Africa's first elected female head of state, has been a strong advocate for women's rights. During her presidency, she implemented policies and programs to combat gender-based violence and promote gender equality, laying the groundwork for ongoing efforts against femicide in Liberia.

Joyce Banda (Malawi)

Joyce Banda, the former President of Malawi, has been an outspoken advocate for women's rights and gender equality. She established the Joyce Banda Foundation, which focuses on education, healthcare, and women's empowerment. During her presidency, she worked to address gender-based violence and promote women's participation in all sectors of society.

Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala (Nigeria)

Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the Director-General of the World Trade Organization and former Finance Minister of Nigeria, has been a strong advocate for women's rights. She has used her influence to raise awareness about gender-based violence and advocate for policies that protect women and girls.

Thuli Madonsela (South Africa)

Thuli Madonsela, a former Public Protector of South Africa, has been a leading voice against corruption and for social justice, including women's rights. She has actively spoken out against femicide and gender-based violence, using her legal expertise and public platform to advocate for change.

Leymah Gbowee (Liberia)

Leymah Gbowee, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, is known for her peacebuilding efforts and advocacy for women's rights. She led a women's peace movement that played a crucial role in ending Liberia's civil war. Gbowee continues to be a strong advocate for gender equality and against violence towards women.

Rebecca Nyandeng De Mabior (South Sudan)

Rebecca Nyandeng De Mabior, the widow of South Sudanese leader John Garang and a prominent political figure, has been a strong advocate for women's rights and against gender-based violence in South Sudan. She has called for greater protection and empowerment of women in the country.

Nana Akufo-Addo (Ghana)

As the President of Ghana, Nana Akufo-Addo has shown commitment to gender equality and women's empowerment. He has supported initiatives aimed at reducing gender-based violence and promoting the rights of women and girls in Ghana.

These leaders, among many others, have contributed to the fight against femicide and gender-based violence through their advocacy, policies, and initiatives. Their efforts continue to inspire and drive progress towards a safer and more equitable Africa for all.

Join the movement. End femicide. Empower women. Build a better Africa.