Rwanda, S. Leone MPs sign cooperation pact

KIGALI - Rwanda women parliamentarians and their Sierra Leonean counterparts have signed a cooperation agreement that will see the two share knowledge and experience for the benefit of both countries. The deal which was announced by Speaker Rose Mukatabana at the end of a week-long working visit to Rwanda by Sierra Leonean MPs who had come to learn from their Rwandan counterparts, especially in the area of gender parity. The two legislatures present contrasting scenarios. Whereas the Rwandan parliament has over 56 percent women representation, Sierra Leone only has 13.7 percent. “Rwanda tops the world in women representation in all decision making levels and we hope to share it with other countries,” said Mukantabana. Following a meeting between the visiting law makers and the Forum for Rwanda Women Parliamentarians, Mukantabana observed that sharing of information would ensure capacity building for the two forums. She also commended the male associate members within Sierra Leone’s Female Parliamentary Caucus (SLEFPAC) for joining efforts targeted at ensuring gender equality. “We have also encouraged Rwandan male parliamentarians to join our forum because we share the same path to achieve gender equality,” Mukantabana said. The head of SLEFPAC, Marie Yansaneh backed these remarks confirming her country’s intent to emulate Rwandan gender equality progress. “We acknowledge the positive strides made by Rwandan women for gender equality in all spheres of leadership. We want to share their experience in the effort to increase our knowledge base,” said Yansaneh She observed that although efforts had been made to empower women in Sierra Leone, coordinated learning efforts from Rwanda would foster further achievements. “The pact collaboration is aimed at enhancing capacity, ensuring cooperation for learning, experience exchange and required mutual support,” Yansaneh noted. The 17 Sierra Leone lawmakers have been in the country on a study tour since last Thursday and are scheduled to return home later today. Ends

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Rwanda, S. Leone MPs sign cooperation pact