“Happy 114th International Women's Day”

"Celebrating International Women's Day with Renewed Commitment to Gender Equality"

While progress has been made to overcome outdated mindsets and empower women, there is still significant work to be done. Women continue to face disproportionate household responsibilities and barriers to leadership and economic opportunity. Women's participation and representation remains crucial for achieving lasting peace and security, particularly in East Africa. However, women are underrepresented in key positions within the Eastern African Standby Force, limiting their ability to contribute meaningfully to these critical efforts.

To truly realize women's potential and ensure their safety, we must:

- Provide women greater access to education, training, and professional development opportunities

- Challenge societal norms that confine women to domestic roles and responsibilities.

- Promote women's leadership and decision-making at all levels of government and civil society.

- Address the scourge of gender-based violence, including during times of conflict.

Only through determined, international and regional action that we can empower women to build a more justifiable and peaceful future for Africa and at large to the Globe. On this International Women's Day, let us rededicate ourselves to this vital cause.

Nitsuh Ketema

Executive Secretary for the Force Commander