Rural women ‘have achieved’ economic emancipation

RWAMAGANA–Rural women have achieved satisfying levels of economic emancipation, according to the National Council for Women (CNF).Addressing the council’s general assembly in Rwamagana, CNF coordinator in the Eastern Province, Alice Uwingabiye, said women were no longer dependants.She added that taboos, stereotypes and prejudices that hindered development of the women, were no longer existent.“Women are no longer held back by traditional economic chains...they have unchained themselves to be equals in society,” Uwingabiye said.“Women participate in what used to be men’s exclusive work. The so called hard work is also done by women...this has enabled women to access money just as men do,” she said.Jacqueline Mukamazera, in charge of economic development in CNF, assured the women of the government’s support.“There is no doubt that government’s support paved way for this kind of women. Women’s economic emancipation has been vital in promoting families...malnutrition for example is becoming history. Mothers can’t allow their children to suffer from kwashiorkor when they have money,” she said.Odette Uwamariya the Governor of Eastern Province, who presided over the function commended CNF’s performance in communities.“You have achieved a lot in a short time. I am sure you won’t be limited. Women’s contribution to socio-economic development in the country can’t be underestimated” she said.