The Department of Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities has expressed strong support for the African Union’s (AU) adoption of the African Union Convention on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls (AU-CEVAWG). This milestone occurred during the 38th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the AU in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

The AU-CEVAWG is a crucial legal framework aimed at preventing and eliminating violence against women and girls across the continent. This development follows a landmark decision made by the AU Heads of State in February 2023 during the African Union Summit, which reaffirmed Africa’s collective commitment to ending violence that has long silenced and oppressed women and girls.

The convention was shaped by extensive consultations with various stakeholders across Africa, including traditional and religious leaders, youth, women leaders, and civil society organizations, among others. These consultations ensured that the voices of African citizens informed the design and objectives of the convention. Some of the key objectives include holding perpetrators accountable, providing justice and remedies for victims, and creating strategies that are rooted in African values and institutions, such as family and community support systems.

The Department of Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities emphasized that violence against women and girls is not only a violation of human rights but also a fundamental breach of freedom, deeply ingrained in historical and traditional power dynamics between men and women. As the convention is implemented, a human rights-based approach will be taken, ensuring that it aligns with international, continental, and regional human rights standards. A victim-centred approach will be prioritized, providing access to justice, support, and comprehensive services for those affected by violence.

This significant step marks a continued effort toward creating a safer, more equal environment for women and girls across Africa.