Hulhumalé, Maldives – On Monday, President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih called for stronger efforts to create an inclusive environment where women have equal opportunities in policymaking and leadership roles in both public and private sectors.
He made these remarks while speaking at the official function to mark International Women’s Day (IWD 2023).
The event was held at the Umar Zahir Office Building in Hulhumalé and attended by First Lady Fazna Ahmed, Vice President Faisal Naseem, and senior government officials.
During his speech, President Solih emphasized the Gender Equality Action Plan, launched in 2022, which aims to increase the participation of women in all sectors, disrupt gender stereotypes, and ensure equal consideration in the decision-making process.
The President also highlighted the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company’s (MTCC) commendable achievements in promoting and empowering women’s rights.
He added that guidelines are in place in all government offices and institutions that reflect the importance of ensuring equity and equality, and he called on them to take steps immediately to ensure the implementation of those policies.
President Solih stated that the IWD 2023 theme, “DigitALL: Innovation and technology for gender equality,” aimed to celebrate women’s achievements in promoting innovative technology and digital education.
He also highlighted the administration’s Strategic Action Plan (SAP), which focuses on economic diversification, information and communication technologies (ICT), and gender equality.
The President also spoke about the administration’s efforts to empower women through the Maldives Enhancing Employability and Resilience of Youth (MEERY) project, equal pay for men and women in sports, and accommodating children under the age of two and a guardian during training camps abroad.
The administration is also encouraging working mothers by dedicating child-friendly spaces in government offices and institutions and introducing flexible hours for working mothers. In conclusion, President Solih urged for a whole-of-society approach to promoting and protecting women’s rights and empowering them to take on leadership roles in all sectors.
The winners of the Rehendhi Award 2023 were presented, and the “Madhadhugaaru” mobile phone application was launched by Vice President Faisal Naseem during the event. The pilot episode of the “Amaze” video series was also screened.
