As global leaders gather in Beijing for the 2023 Global Leaders' Meeting on Women, Mozambique's Ambassador to China Maria Gustava offered a compelling perspective on three decades of advancements in gender equality during a CGTN roundtable discussion. Her insights underscored the enduring relevance of the 1995 Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action while highlighting new opportunities for international collaboration.
From Policy to Practice
Ambassador Gustava emphasized how the Beijing Declaration's framework has enabled Mozambique to implement progressive policies, including gender parity initiatives in education and political representation. 'When 65% of our university graduates are now women, we see concrete results of sustained commitment,' she noted, while acknowledging ongoing challenges in rural healthcare access.
South-South Cooperation Model
The diplomat highlighted growing partnerships between African nations and China in women's empowerment programs, particularly in agricultural technology training and maternal health initiatives. These collaborations have reportedly benefited over 200,000 women across Mozambique since 2015.
Digital Age Opportunities
Looking ahead, Gustava stressed the importance of addressing digital gender divides while leveraging technology for empowerment. She cited Mozambique's recent mobile banking literacy programs reaching 150,000 women entrepreneurs as an example of scalable solutions.
