Women Leaders Reaching Out For More

The Rwanda Women Leaders Network, launched last weekend by the First Lady Mrs. Jeanette Kagame, will go a long way in improving the welfare of Rwandan women. As a result of the Government’s commitment to gender equality and empowerment of women, Rwandan women have taken up leadership roles and performed brilliantly in both, private and public organisations. According to the Minister of Gender and Family Promotion, Aloisea Inyumba, the idea of creating such a network was born as a result of a similar network - the Network of African Ministers and Parliamentarians. Rwanda Women Leaders Network is expected to bring together government leaders such as ministers, parliamentarians, senators, permanent secretaries, Director Generals, local government leaders, women in the judiciary, leaders of international organizations, civil society, faith based organisations and private organisations. Members invited to the launch were excited about the creation of this network and its prospects. The network will provide a forum for the women leaders to meet and share experiences and lessons learnt and in so doing encourage and inspire one another. They will also commit themselves to specific goals and targets and hold each other accountable. As part of celebrating their achievements and recognizing women who have served diligently, Hon. Aloysia Cyanzaire was honored for her outstanding service as Chief Justice. Cyanzayire was the first female Chief Justice in Rwanda. She served for eight years and completed her term of office successfully, a few months ago. Network activities will include such celebration of women leaders’ achievements. Cyanzayire shared some principles she has held dear in her career. She said determination and hard work ensured that she got up and went to work each morning and did not give up even when things were tough. She pointed out the importance of team work and acknowledging one’s strengths as well as weaknesses. She encouraged the women leaders to mentor young girls and set a good example for them. Inspiring and mentoring the next generation of leaders forms part of the Network’s mission. This will ensure that their good work is continued and also guarantee that Rwanda’s sons and daughters are nurtured to develop and utilize their leadership capacities. This is one way the women leaders hope to express their gratitude and give back to society. The women leaders are mindful that there are many women who have not had the opportunity they had. They are therefore committed to advocate for women and do all in their power to improve the living standards of the less fortunate. Being part of this network, the women leaders will be able to support one another and hold each other accountable to fulfill the goals and targets they set to achieve together. These targets are clearly spelt out in the Umuhigo, the women leaders committed themselves to. akotiti@gmail.com