Rwanda recommits to women empowerment on International Women’s Day

The day was celebrated by reflecting on the important role of women in national development, and reaffirming the country’s commitment to advancing gender equality.

In a post on X, President Paul Kagame said on women’s day and every day, Rwanda celebrates the foundational role women continue to play in the country’s transformation.

“Your resilience, ingenuity and leadership continue to affirm a simple truth: a nation can only truly progress when inclusion and equality are upheld in every sphere.”

Separately, the Ministry of Gender and Family Promotion in a statement noted that when women are empowered, the nation grows stronger.

“Let us remember the role women play in nurturing families and shaping nations. Let us support them, empower them and give them the opportunity to contribute more to the development of our country. You are capable and you have proven your capabilities,” the ministry said.

Various activities were organized countrywide to raise awareness on gender equality and reflect on the important role of women in national development.

In Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, the First Lady Jeannette Kagame joined a special car free day wellness activity organized by the gender ministry dedicated to celebration of International Women’s Day.

Organizers said women’s physical health and mental wellness are important in shaping equality and lasting prosperity. 

Rwanda has been hailed as a global leader in women’s representation and dedication to creating a more inclusive and equitable society.

The global gender gap has closed to 68.8% led by economic and political advances, according to the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report 2025, with progress driven primarily by significant strides in political empowerment and economic participation.

The report showed that Rwanda is the only economy in the region to have achieved full parliamentary parity.