Africa Day 2024: Celebration will centre on empowering women in Agriculture, says Djibril Diallo

The African Renaissance and Diaspora Network (ARDN) in partnership with the UN Permanent Mission of Senegal and UNFPA, UN-Habitat, UNEP, UNDP and other UN agencies is set to host the 2024 Africa Day celebrations at the United Nations Headquarters in New York on Friday, May 24th, from 3 pm to 5 pm ET. This annual event offers a unique platform to celebrate the success and diversity of the African continent, highlighting its economic and cultural potential.

This year’s theme, “Women of Africa and the Diaspora and Agricultural Development,” aims to increase public awareness of the crucial role women play in agriculture. It also underscores the economic and social dimensions of African countries and the African Diaspora. A key focus will be on the importance of education—both for women, to empower them with necessary knowledge and tools, and for men, to promote allies and equal partnership.

Dr. Djibril Diallo, President and CEO of ARDN, emphasized the critical role of women in agriculture for the continent’s future. “A vibrant and strong agricultural sector is necessary for countries in Africa and the African diaspora, and their people, to thrive in the 21st century,” he said. “Recognizing and supporting the role and work of women in agriculture is critical for achievement of the sustainable development goals, and Africa Agenda 2063.”

Despite their significant contributions, women in agriculture face numerous challenges, including limited access to land, water, seeds, fertilizers, markets, credit, and financial services. These challenges are often exacerbated by inequitable laws and customs that favour male inheritance and impede women’s land ownership.

The objectives of the 2024 Africa Day celebrations include exploring the intersection between women’s rights and agricultural development within the framework of the Campaign to Give a Red Card to All Forms of Discrimination and Violence Against Women and Girls, showcasing the potential and promise of Africa, and promoting a positive narrative of the continent. The event will also recognize developments and advancements in Africa from 1963 to the present, inspire and empower women in leadership roles within agriculture and related sectors, and highlight and popularize the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goals 2 (Zero Hunger), 5 (Gender Equality), and 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), in alignment with Africa Agenda 2063.

ARDN Goodwill Ambassador Akeju Abass also shared his perspective on the event’s significance. “The Africa Day celebration is not only a moment to reflect on our heritage but also to forge a path forward,” Abass stated. “By empowering women and addressing disparities in agriculture, we are planting the seeds for a more prosperous and equitable future for all Africans and the diaspora.”

ARDN’s efforts also include mobilizing the African Diaspora to foster stronger ties with the continent, aiming to accelerate its economic and social development. “The convening powers of sports and culture play a significant role in our mission to eliminate discrimination and violence against women and girls,” Dr Diallo added.

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