Strengthening the role of women in decision-making bodies to transform communities and promote inclusive development.
In a historic milestone for the promotion of gender equality and inclusion, PASCAL and the Ministry of Territorial Administration (MAT) held the first meeting of Women Leaders in Local Governance on November 25th. This pioneering event brought together prominent women from different areas of activity to reflect on their role in decision-making bodies, celebrate achievements, face challenges and define empowerment strategies that positively impact communities and the country as a whole.
The meeting was a unique opportunity to listen and learn from the experiences of women who already lead in local contexts. During the event, the importance of expanding women’s access to leadership positions was highlighted, especially in public administration and local decision-making spaces. The participants analyzed the challenges they face daily, from cultural and structural barriers to underrepresentation in strategic positions, and discussed public policy measures that can promote gender equality in an effective and sustainable way.
The debate also focused on the need to foster support networks and mentoring, in addition to creating mechanisms that guarantee the active participation of women in local governance, not only as leaders, but as agents of social transformation.
The vision shared at this meeting is clear: empowering and including more women in decision-making structures not only benefits them, but is essential for the sustainable and equitable development of the country. As one participant stated, “When a woman leads, the entire community moves forward together.”
PASCAL and MAT reinforced their commitment to continue promoting initiatives that value and strengthen women’s participation in local governance, believing that investing in women’s empowerment is a decisive step towards achieving a more just, inclusive and developed Angola.