In the afternoon of August 09, 2017, The PM Murekezi Anastase officially opened the “Advancing Women Forum in Leadership for Africa – Asia” took place in Kigali at Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Centre.
Prime Minister Anastase Murekezi urged women to enrich their leadership skills and be able to compete for leadership position in sports and become mentors for young men and women seeking to work in sports activities.
Prime Minister pointed out that Rwanda made tremendous improvement in the promotion of gender equality with 64% of Parliamentary seats occupied by women and that the trend is seen in other decision making positions.
“Despite the fact that Rwanda has done a lot in promoting gender equality and sports, we still have gaps in representation of women in sports leadership. Currently, the number of women in the Rwanda National Olympic and Sports Committee is at 42,8%; but in the National Sports Federations, they are only 16%.” Said Prime Minister Murekezi.
Anastase Murekezi added that the world has changed and that men and momen have to be treated equal in all domains.
“Women and Men are equal in terms of ability and dignity, and they should also be equal in terms of opportunity”. Rwandans, as a global community, we need every member of our society to use his or her talents to the fullest”.
“The 2017 statistics that were released by the International Olympic Committee show that on average, women represent only 17% in the National Olympic Committee General Assemblies and 20.7% in Executive Boards”. he added
PM Murekezi conclude his speech by urging all participants to advise African and Asian Countries on how better to advance women in sports leadership and participation.
“Our Country, Rwanda, with its commitment to international engagements, is ready to implement your recommendations.” Said PM Anastase.
The IOC Member, President of IOC Women in Sports Commission and the President of Burundi National Olympic Committee, Madam Nsekera Lydia in her remarks, She reminded that the purpose of the forum was to interact, sharing the best practical experiences and encouraging the men to participate in
promoting gender.
