This week we talk to Dr. Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka about UN Women’s activities in five priority areas to advance gender equality, which include increasing women’s leadership and participation; ending violence against women; engaging women in peace and security processes; enhancing women’s economic empowerment; and making gender equality an essential part of national development planning and budgeting. Dr. Mlambo-Ngcuka, draws attention to campaigns such as HeforShe which encourages constructive masculinity for men to stand up for women, as well as Impact 10x10x10 where heads of state champion a gender issue of their choice, for instance the President of Malawi is focussing on child marriage; ultimately these campaigns seek to get men to take responsibility in the fight against gender inequality. We mention the role of technology as a game changer in the innovation stakes, but remark that efforts must be undertaken to ensure equal access to prevent a digital divide. Dr. Mlambo-Ngcuka also shares some highlights of her address for the 9th Thabo Mbeki Africa Day lecture on gender equality and women empowerment. Tune in for more….

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