Today, the world celebrates the 111th International Women’s Day (IWD) with the theme: Embrace Equity. However, equality is still far off, but there is progress, especially for African women, as the continent has demonstrated commitment to promoting gender equality and the empowerment of women.
This ‘equity’ can only be achieved when women, men, girls and boys have equal rights, conditions and opportunities. It is when everyone, regardless of their gender, has the power to shape their own lives and contribute to their communities.
To celebrate this day of global recognition for the impact of women across numerous sectors, nothing sets a better mood than listening to soul-stirring music, and Maire’s ‘Woman’, a sensational single which was released last year, captures the celebration’s spirit perfectly.
This year’s edition of the IWD is another invitation for women to celebrate their shared values, even while the fight against systemic challenges continues.
Today, many African women are compelled to remember inspirations such as Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie (Author, Nigeria); Aya Chebbi (Activist, Tunisia); Lupita Nyong’o (Actress, Kenya); Lesly Kanza, Head of Africa and member of the executive committee, World Economic Forum (WEF); Ibukun Awosika, Nigeria: Founder and CEO, The Chair Centre Group; Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Nigeria: Chair, board of the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunisation (GAVI), and hundreds of others who dared to be different.
The viral afrobeat song, which was released in 2022, captures the essence perfectly, having the opportunity to put in the work and earning well-deserved respect.
As one Nigeria’s most sought-after artiste, Maire’s ‘Woman’, stands out as a powerful symbol of empowerment and courage. The song hits home, giving a much-needed boost to feminine energies on International Women’s Day.
As the leading lady sings, “I can do anything, I can win anything”, a powerful anthem ultimately embodying the dignity of the resilient and celebrated women of today, who continue to defy all challenges and pave the way for a transformed and gender-equal future.
Therefore, on International Women’s Day 2023, let us join hands and voices in singing ‘Woman’ and declaring our appreciation to all the women who strive to create a world that works for everyone
