The high-level dialogue, themed “Rights, Justice, Action: For ALL Women and Girls”, brought together government representatives, UN agencies, diplomats, civil society, youth, and private sector stakeholders to discuss concrete measures for advancing gender equality and women’s empowerment.

Dr. Fatmata Lovetta Sesay, UN Resident Coordinator a.i. and UNDP Resident Representative, emphasized the need for tangible impact, saying, “Rights, justice, and action must translate into real, measurable improvements in the daily lives of women and girls. Policies alone are not enough services must be accessible, inclusive, and trusted by all communities.”

She highlighted Rwanda’s innovation in service delivery, including Isange One Stop Centres, which provide integrated medical, legal, and psychosocial support for survivors of gender-based violence.

Delivering welcome remarks, Tikikel Tadele Alemu, UN Women Representative (OIC) and Chair of the Gender, Human Rights, Diversity and Inclusion (GHRDI) Group, reminded attendees of persistent challenges, stating, “While we celebrate progress, we must remember the women and girls still facing barriers due to poverty, disability, displacement, or gender-based violence. Our focus must be on accountability, inclusive action, and leaving no one behind.”

Speakers highlighted Rwanda’s strong legal and policy frameworks, including constitutional equality guarantees, laws on gender-based violence and child protection, and national strategies such as the National Gender Policy and NST2.

Director General Silas Ngayaboshya, representing the Honourable Minister of Gender and Family Promotion, praised Rwanda’s achievements in women’s leadership and gender-responsive governance.

He stated, “Rwanda has made remarkable progress in promoting women’s participation across all sectors. But continued success requires coordination, accountability, and ensuring that no woman or girl is left behind, particularly in our rural communities.”

They stressed the importance of addressing structural barriers such as social norms, unpaid care work, and limited access to economic opportunities. Expanding women’s participation in high-growth sectors such as digital innovation, infrastructure, and entrepreneurship was also emphasized.

The dialogue reinforced the importance of partnerships. Participants called for aligned efforts, increased financing, and innovative solutions to scale programs that empower women and girls. They stressed the need for data-driven accountability and youth-led community initiatives to track progress and ensure that no one is left behind.

As Rwanda approaches Beijing+30, the forum concluded with a shared call to action. Speakers agreed that the true measure of progress lies in tangible improvements in the lives of women and girls, reinforcing Rwanda’s national commitment to “Empowered Women, Stronger Nation.”