Tribute to Women Around the World on International Women’s Day
Today is a remarkable day—a day when the world pauses to celebrate the achievements, strength, hardiness, and tireless spirit of women everywhere. International Women’s Day (IWD) is not just a commemoration; it is a powerful movement that accentuates the continuous struggle for gender equality, empowerment, and recognition.
As we celebrate, we honor the groundbreaking—women who have shattered barriers and paved the way for progress. Women like Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti (1900-1978), a fearless activist who championed women’s rights and democracy in Nigeria. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala (1954), the first woman and African to lead the World Trade Organization, has been a leading light of excellence in global finance and economic reform. Obiageli Ezekwesili (1963), an advocate for good governance and education, has been at the forefront of economic transformation in Africa.
We remember Margaret Ekpo (1914-2006), a pioneering nationalist and politician who fought tirelessly for the political inclusion of women in Nigeria, and Hajia Gambo Sawaba (1933-2001), who dedicated her life to social justice and uplifting marginalized women in Northern Nigeria.
Beyond our borders, women have continued to reshape history and inspire generations. Flora Nwapa, the mother of modern African literature, and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie have used literature as a tool to challenge societal norms and amplify women's voices.
Wangari Maathai (Kenya), an environmentalist and founder of the Green Belt Movement, won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2004 for her groundbreaking work in conservation and women’s empowerment. Her legacy reminds us that sustainability and gender equality go hand in hand.
Women across Africa and the world continue to demonstrate suppleness and leadership. Alice Banze (Mozambique), Winnie Byanyima (Uganda), and Samia Suluhu Hassan (Tanzania), the first female President of Tanzania, are all indications to the changing tides of political and social empowerment.
Leymah Gbowee (Liberia), a peace activist, led a nonviolent movement that played a crucial role in ending Liberia’s civil war, earning her the Nobel Peace Prize in 2011. In Sierra Leone, Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr is spearheading change and development, showing that women in leadership transform societies.
From the fields of science, activism, literature, and politics to the everyday contributions of women as mothers, sisters, daughters, and colleagues, women shape our world in immeasurable ways.
The empowerment of women is not just a phrase; it is a call to action. It is about ensuring that every woman has the right to education, healthcare, economic opportunities, and freedom from discrimination and violence. Women's empowerment is about breaking barriers and creating a society where every woman can make strategic choices and reach her full potential.
Great minds like Marie Curie (science), Malala Yousafzai (activism), Rosalind Franklin (science), Grace Hopper (computer science), and Melinda Gates (philanthropy) have paved the way for innovation and advocacy. Their contributions remind us that when women rise, humanity rises with them.
As we celebrate today, we must also acknowledge the challenges that remain—gender inequality, gender-based violence, limited access to education, and underrepresentation in leadership. The fight is far from over, but the progress made so far gives us hope.
International Women’s Day is not just about celebrating achievements; it is about renewing our commitment to supporting and uplifting women. It is about creating an inclusive world where opportunities are not dictated by gender but by potential and merit.
To the women breaking boundaries, to the women raising the next generation, to the women leading revolutions, and to those silently shaping the world—we honor you, we celebrate you, and we stand with you.
Let today serve as a reminder that women’s voices, dreams, and ambitions are essential to the growth and prosperity of our world.
Salute to Women Everywhere
Happy International Women’s Day
Daniel Okonkwo Profiles International Human Rights Advocate.
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