Limkokwing University Swaziland hosted the 2016 International Women’s Day celebrations on 08 March. The event was in conjunction with the Gender & Family Issues department, United Nation’s Gender Theme Group, Gender Consortium and ENACTUS Swaziland.

International Women’s Day celebrates the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating gender equality.

Since its inception, International Women’s Day has grown into a global celebration of past and present accomplishments of women, and as an opportunity to look ahead to the untapped potential and opportunities for future generations of women. 

Themed ‘Planet 50-50 by 2030: Step It Up For Gender Equality’, it was a call to action for government , civil society , development partners, public and private sector institutions to join forces in increasing efforts to close the gender gap in their respective contexts.

The event was attended by the Deputy Prime Minister of Swaziland, His Excellency Paul Dlamini; Hhohho Regional Administrator, His Royal Highness Prince Tshekedi; United Nations resident Coordinator, Israel Dessalegne; United Nation Population Fund’s Program Analyst, Phumzile Dlamini; Manager at World Vision, Amon Dlamini and Family Health International’s Community-based Livelihoods Chief of Party, Laura Muzart.

On his keynote address, His Excellency Paul Dlamini said there was a need to embrace a multi-pronged approach in the fight against gender inequality.

“I implore efforts be made internationally and globally for the inclusion of gender equality as a standalone goal in the recently adopted global Sustainable Development Goals 2030,” he acknowledged.

Swaziland United Nations Resident Coordinator, Israel Dessalegne said the celebration marked a special day for all nations all over the world. He called upon organisations to join forces and reaffirm their commitment to stepping up efforts to protect the rights of women and girls.

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