Message of H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf Chairperson of the AU Commission on the Occasion of International Women’s Day 2026

8 MARCH 2026

Excellencies,
Dear Esteemed Colleagues

Today, 8 March 2026, we at the African Union join the global community in commemorating International Women's Day - an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of women and girls across our continent and to reaffirm our commitment to gender equality and women's empowerment.

This year's commemoration holds special significance for us at the African Union Commission. Under the theme "Honouring Women of the African Union: Voices, Work and Community," we recognise the extraordinary women whose dedication, leadership and daily contributions sustain and strengthen our institution.

Across the Commission - from Commissioners and Directors to programme officers, administrators, translators, security personnel and support staff - women play a vital role in advancing the work of our Union. Some contributions are highly visible, others less so. Yet every role matters and every woman deserves dignity, respect and recognition.

As we honour women within our institution, we also reaffirm the African Union's strong continental commitments to gender equality. Through instruments such as the Maputo Protocol, the African Union Convention on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls, the Solemn Declaration on Gender Equality in Africa, and the AU Strategy for Gender Equality and Women's Empowerment, Africa has established one of the most progressive normative frameworks for women's rights in the world.

The entry into force of the African Union Convention on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls marks an important milestone in strengthening protection for women and girls across the continent. I call upon all Member States that have not yet done so to sign, ratify and domesticate this landmark Convention.

Dear Colleagues,

Violence against women and girls remains one of the most pervasive human rights challenges in our societies. Addressing it is not only a moral responsibility but also essential for peace, security, public health and sustainable development.

This year's International Women's Day also intersects with the African Union's Theme of the Year on Water and Sanitation. Across Africa, women and girls often bear the greatest burden of water collection and face significant health and safety risks due to inadequate sanitation.

Investing in water infrastructure and ensuring safe and dignified sanitation facilities is therefore central to advancing gender equality. When women participate in water governance and natural resource management, outcomes are more inclusive, equitable and sustainable.

Within the African Union Commission, we must continue to embody the values we promote across the continent. A people-centred Union requires a workplace culture grounded in respect, inclusion and equal opportunity. We must continue promoting women's leadership and supporting the next generation of African women professionals.

To the women of the African Union Commission: your dedication, professionalism and resilience strengthen our institution and advance our shared continental vision.

To the women and girls of Africa: your aspirations lie at the heart of Agenda 2063 - The Africa We Want. Your leadership is essential to building a peaceful, prosperous and inclusive continent.

Dear friends,

On this momentous occasion, let us continue to honour women's voices, recognise their contributions and renew our commitment to building an Africa where every woman and every girl lives in dignity, equality and freedom.

I wish all African women and girls a meaningful and empowering International Women's Day 2026.