UAE And Eswatini Collaborate On SHE Powers Africa Initiative To Empower Women And Girls

The "SHE Powers Africa" initiative was introduced during the 80th United Nations General Assembly in New York. This initiative, supported by H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Mother of the Nation, Chairwoman of the General Women's Union, President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, and Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation, aims to empower women and girls across Africa. It is part of the Global Councils for the Sustainable Development Goals, specifically supporting Goal 5 on gender equality.

This initiative is a collaboration between the UAE and Eswatini, focusing on empowering women and girls aged 18 to 35 in Eswatini. The programme provides skills in AI, science and technology, climate innovation, and digital technologies. It also addresses digital safety and cybersecurity issues while tackling gender-based online violence.

The launch event saw participation from King Mswati III of Eswatini; Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, Minister of State; Savannah Mazia, Minister of Information, Communications and Technology in Eswatini; Noura Khalifa Al Suwaid, Secretary-General of the General Women's Union; and Hanan Mansoor Ahli, Director of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre. Delegations from various countries and international experts were also present.

Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan highlighted that this initiative underscores the UAE's belief that empowering women strengthens society as a whole. He noted that Emirati women have become scientists, diplomats, entrepreneurs, and leaders. Their achievements serve as a global inspiration.

Noura Khalifa Al Suwaidi emphasised that this initiative reflects H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak's vision. Since founding the General Women’s Union in 1975, she has championed women's empowerment in the UAE. Her efforts have enabled women to transition from illiteracy to leadership roles with significant global influence.

The "SHE Powers Africa" initiative also aims to enhance South-South cooperation by developing an innovative model that can be implemented in other African nations. This strategic partnership seeks to advance digital inclusion and strengthen women's leadership across Africa.

This initiative represents a significant step towards achieving gender balance by equipping women with essential skills for future challenges. By fostering such partnerships, it hopes to create a sustainable impact on women's empowerment throughout the African continent.

With inputs from WAM