Dolana Msimang South African Ambassador to China

legitimacy.

Women, whether in Africa, Asia or elsewhere, have the intrinsic desire to make the world a better place. It is, therefore, critical for women to ensure that they take their rightful positions in politics, government, business and civil society and that women and girls of all ages have access to quality education, universal healthcare, adequate food and shelter and a peaceful and safe environment.

These are the goals of many countries, governments and international organizations and are also contained in the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals adopted on September 25, 2015, setting targets for the next 15 years to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure prosperity for all as part of the sustainable development agenda.

To secure our future for many generations to come, it is our duty as women, irrespective of age, position or status, to internalize these goals and to contribute toward them with strength and determination as part of the global project to make the world a better place for all, who live in it.