Importance of gender equity in Africa’s democracy agenda

MANY a time the concept of gender equity and equality are confused.

Equality means each individual or group of people is given the same resources or opportunities despite their abilities and capabilities.

Equity ensures each person has different circumstances and allocated the exact resources and opportunities needed to reach an equal outcome, hence the need to express and encourage the idea that in the pursuit of a just and equitable society, the promotion of gender equity stands as a cornerstone of democracy.

Gender equity, ensuring equal rights, opportunities, and representation for all genders, is a vital component of a democratic system that values diversity, inclusivity, and social justice.

Gender equity is a necessary prerequisite of Africa’s democracy agenda given its transformative power of empowering women in shaping a modern and more prosperous society.

Economic growth leads inevitably to social development and gender equity is part of this development.

The patriarchal culture ingrained in the African society should reconsider that democracy thrives when gender parity and equity are achieved in all spheres of life, be it social, cultural, technological, political or economic spheres.

The United Nations insists on how important it to is to include and represent women at all levels of decision-making worldwide to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.

UN Women executive director Sima Bahous expressed how full democracy requires the equal participation of women as men in all its processes during the Women in Politics 2023 edition of the Map.

From economic crisis and lack of health care, to climate change, violence and escalating conflicts, women are not only more affected by these problems, but also possess ideas and leadership to solve them.

The gender discrimination still holding too many women back, holds the world back too.

It is not only about placing women in offices of power, but more to do away with gender parity.

More women than ever hold political decision-making posts globally, with about 17 out of 151 countries with women as heads of state, but gender parity is still far off, according to the 2023 edition of the Inter-Parliamentary Union – United Nations Women Map of Women in Politics.

Zimbabwe has been deliberate in empowering women so they also participate in decision making processes.

This has seen women participating in politics and holding influential posts in the private sector.

More, however, still needs to be done to increase women participation in economic activities and politics.

In the 2023 elections, there were 22 women who were elected for the 210 National Assembly seats out of the 70 women who contested against 637 male candidates, according to the Election Resource Centre.

Robust legal reforms aimed at protecting and promoting women’s rights are vital for creating an inclusive and just society.

Measures to eradicate gender-based violence, ensure equal access to education and healthcare, and guarantee reproductive rights are essential for fostering gender equity within democratic systems.

Stigma, impunity and silence have allowed this violence to continue.

There is need for more voices to amplify the challenges and women within positions of power should stand firmly against the thorny issues.

It is important to dismantle economic barriers and promote equal economic opportunities for all.

Gender equity in economic spheres enhances societal well-being, as it allows individuals to contribute fully to the economy and fosters innovation and productivity.

Gender equality goes hand-in-hand with macroeconomic and financial stability that can stimulate economic growth, boost private and public sector performance, and reduce income inequality.

By addressing wage gaps, supporting women’s entrepreneurship, and removing discriminatory practices, democratic societies can build thriving economies that benefit everyone — to some degree of course.

Education plays a pivotal role in promoting gender equity within democratic societies.

Providing inclusive and quality education will empower women, challenge gender stereotypes and foster critical thinking.

Education equips individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to actively participate in civic life, make informed decisions as well as nurture the abilities to be innovative.

The strength of democracy lies in its ability to engage citizens and ensure their active participation in shaping policies and holding governments accountable.

Civil society organisations, particularly feminist groups, play a crucial role in advocating for gender equity and driving social change.

It is also important that democracy safeguards freedom of expression, association, and assembly, enabling civil society to flourish and contribute to the ongoing pursuit of gender equity.

Gender equity thus, is not only a moral imperative, but also an essential component of a thriving democracy.

By promoting equal representation, ensuring women’s rights, fostering economic equality, investing in education, and engaging civil society, democracies create an environment where all individuals can realise their full potential.

Embracing gender equity strengthens democratic institutions, enhances social cohesion, and paves the way for a more inclusive and prosperous society.

As African countries advance on the path towards democracy, it is essential to ensure gender equity remains at the forefront of our collective efforts, as it is a vital ingredient for a truly democratic and equitable world.

◆ Gladys Charangwa is studying International Relations at Africa University in Zimbabwe.