In his message, which VerAngola had access to, the President of the Republic begins by discussing the event, stating that African Women's Day – celebrated annually on July 31st – was established "following the Conference of African Women, held in 1962 in Dar es Salaam, United Republic of Tanzania, a historic milestone in raising awareness among African women about their decisive role in building an Africa committed to peace, progress, and development."
"This date reminds us of complex political contexts, in which courageous women distinguished themselves for their achievements in favor of the independence of the countries of our continent, the fight against Apartheid, and other difficult battles in which they engaged to restore the dignity of the peoples of Africa, and for their affirmation in the concert of nations of this world, as essential agents in the promotion of the intrinsically African values of humanism, harmony, and understanding," he states.
"The evidence of our times clearly shows how successful the struggle of African women for their inclusion in the national life of their countries was and for their recognition as a structuring pillar upon which policies of integration and openness to female participation in all sectors of society are based. Through the effectiveness and efficiency they demonstrate in fulfilling their responsibilities, regardless of their complexity, they have proven fundamental in the process of building African nations," he added.
The President of the African Union also recognizes and praises the role of women as "mothers and educators": "On this commemorative date, I cannot fail to recognize and praise your role as mothers and educators in the formation of women and men, heirs to the deepest African values of generosity, respect for each other, and for their ancestors, from whom the children of Africa are inspired to build a prosperous, safe, peaceful, friendly, inclusive, and harmonious continent."
"It is essential that we reaffirm the commitment of political leaders, business leaders, social groups and other related structures in society to implementing actions and policies that irreversibly ensure the full implementation of the struggle for the emancipation of African women," concluded the head of state.
