AU Conference celebrates courage in overcoming harmful traditional practices
Addis Ababa, 07thOctober 2011 – The African Union’s (AU’s) Commissioner of Social Affairs, Advocate Bience Gawanas and Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ)representative, Dr. Mechthild Ruenger gave a press conference on the discussions and outcomes of a three day conference on“ Celebrating Courage and Overcoming Harmful Traditional Practices (HTPs)”, on 07 October 2011,at the AU headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
At the press conference, Commissioner Gawanas said the conference was the first one of its kind that the AU Commission has organized. During the proceedings the Commission congratulated those individuals and organizations who have undertaken campaigns in fighting HTPs within the continent. The conference provided a platform for consultations on the tools and instruments used to combat HTPs so far as well as for the sharing of best practices of civil society organizations confronting the task of eradicating harmful traditional practices on the continent.
Furthermore, it was pointed out that the continued practice of HTPs is linked to the problem of gender inequality and the negative aspects of local traditions and cultures. It was stressed in the conference that focus should not be placed on Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) alone but also on a broader set of harmful practices which are prevalent on the continent.
Commissioner Gawanas called upon members of the media to use the public stage and become a powerful ally in the fight against HTPs in Africa and around the world. The Commissioner also underlined the importance of using simple approaches of communication while trying to reach the vulnerable target groups that are most affected by HTPs.
The Commissioner advocated the use of inter and cross-generational dialogues for building a strong foundation for both the present and the future generations in the elimination of HTPs. She stressed the importance of youth involvement, and challenged them by stating, “You are the torch bearers and it is you that are going to shine light in the dark corners of Africa”.
During the question time, the Commissioner emphasised the need for showing sensitivity to cultural values while approaching such societies and trying to change their mind set about HTPs.
The Commissioner further intimated to the participants that “the Department of Social Affairs is exerting its full effort in order to see dramatic changes in the areas of gender equality and the safety of women and children. Additionally, Commissioner Gawanas noted that although there is a good constitution against HTPs, the challenges faced are mainly on implementation of laws and policies that are adopted Member States.
On her part, Dr. Ruenger, reiterated the support of the GIZ to the AU for the eradication of HTPs as part of the Commission’s Strategic Plans. She stated that GIZ will be able to offer any kind of required assistance in the fight against HTPs. Dr. Ruenger also stated the importance of securing access to basic human rights such as education and economic empowerment of women.
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