Information Note

UNAMID celebrates International Women's Day

El Fasher, 8 March 2011 –  The African Union-United Nations Mission in Darfur (UNAMID) today celebrated the International Women’s Day, under the theme of "Equal Access to Education, Training, Science and Technology: Pathway to decent work for women," in Darfur’s three States.

In El Fasher, North Darfur, the day began with a solidarity march through the city. Taking part were hundreds of women, men and children, including internally displaced persons, as well as representatives from State Government institutions, civil society, medical institutions, traditional and religious leaders, and Sudanese police and military, together with UN agency and Mission staff.

Young women marching in El Fasher during the celebrations. Photo by Olivier Chassot - UNAMID

The march ended at Al Nagaah Stadium, where children acted in drama sketches and sang songs. Secondary school girls also interviewed female Darfurian role models.

Joining the celebration were UNAMID Joint Special Representative (JSR) Ibrahim Gambari, State Minister of Finance Abdo Doud Suliman, and Wali Advisor on Women and Children issues Halima Tibin Boosh, as well as other Government and Mission senior officials.
       
The JSR conveyed the UN Secretary-General’s message on the 100 anniversary of the commemoration of the Day. “On this centenary, we celebrate the significant progress that has been achieved through determined advocacy, practical action and enlightened policy making. Yet, in too many countries and societies, women remain second-class citizens.”  

The statement highlighted the importance of increasing women’s access to education, health, areas of decision-making and technology. “Only through women’s full and equal participation in all areas of public and private life can we hope to achieve the sustainable, peaceful and just society promised in the United Nations Charter.”

Similar events organized by UNAMID, in collaboration with the local authorities and UN agencies, took place in Kabkabiya, North Darfur, Zalingei and El Geneina, West Darfur, and Nyala, South Darfur.

Communication and Public Information Division Media Contacts
Kemal Saïki, Director; saiki@un.org; tel.: +249 (0) 92 244 3529; mobile: +249 (0) 92 241 0020

Chris Cycmanick, Officer-in-Charge, Media Relations; cycmanick@un.org, mobile: +249 (0)91 253 8436