Women make up half of the world's population and to fully realize human potential, they must be fully involved in all facets of society. Not only is it morally required to invest in women's empowerment and gender equality, but it is also strategically necessary to promote sustainable development and advance global progress.

Empowering women benefits entire nations as well as families and communities. When given equal opportunities in leadership, employment, and education, women significantly contribute to social stability, economic prosperity, and innovation. Numerous studies show that empowering women enhances their general well-being, lowers poverty, and improves their health and education. At Blantyre Water Board in Malawi, through the “Sustaining the Flow of Lide and Development (SLD) Program, there are deliberate plans to empower women for taking up leadership positions to reduce the gender inequality.

As the world commemorates the 2024 International Women’s Day, I implore on governments, organizations and communities to direct their focus on investing in women for accelerated progress in development projects. Women are frequently at the forefront of developmental projects such as community development and environmental preservation. Women who are economically and socially empowered are better able to support sustainable development and environmental preservation.

Gender equality is a fundamental human right for all and not just a problem for women. Equal opportunity and treatment should be given to all people, regardless of their gender. Society can unleash the potential and abilities of its whole populace and promote inclusivity and diversity by eliminating gender-based discrimination.

Beyond the scope of society, gender equality is a cross-cutting issue that expedites progress across all development objectives, from eradicating poverty to advancing high-quality education.