Luanda – Angola’s minister of State for Social Affairs Carolina Cerqueira Thursday praised the resilience, spirit of self-denial, sacrifice and commitment of the country’s women to improve the lives of families within communities.
Carolina Cerqueira was speaking at a meeting sponsored by the U.S. Embassy in Angola through USAID and ExxonMobil, as part of March Woman celebration.
She said despite the daily setbacks women have managed to make their way in political, business, police, financial and political life, contributing with their knowledge to the development of communities and the country.
According to her, denying women access to decision making is a waste of human potential and by being excluded or not having their capabilities and leadership power recognised, they feel prevented from fully developing their skills and talents.
"May each woman inspire other women, motivate and serve as a reference to the younger generations so that they can be proud in the future of the example given and the works created with competence, dedication and selflessness," the minister said.
Under the 2018-2022 National Development Plan, the Angolan Executive has focused on programmes to fight poverty, protect and promote children's rights, value the family and strengthen family skills, and the comprehensive development of youth, she said.
Carolina Cerqueira highlighted the impact of the Kwenda - programme of social cash transfers - in the life of the communities, particularly of women, whose population covers more than 54 percent of the beneficiaries, aimed to empower and give autonomy to women and girls.
The official stressed that an empowered woman bolsters family bonds and community, stating that supporting women is an investment and a safe way to expand their rights, families and other members of society, contributing to sustainable development.
