In Honor of Women and Girls

kimbilious
3 days ago
2 min read

We love the day each year that women and girls worldwide are honored -- International Women's Day. Kimbilio's celebrations were glorious, as always.

This year, the United Nations established the theme for the day: ""Rights. Justice. Action." For ALL women and girls. The theme emphasized the urgency of taking action against systemic inequalities and guaranteeing equitable access to justice. The need cannot be disputed.

According to the United Nations, globally women have 64% of the legal protections that men do in areas such as pay, marriage and assets. The situation on the ground is much worse, though -- effectively in the 40%s -- with a lack of systems needed to support the laws that are in place. For the DR Congo, one must acknowledge the recent positive moves in the political scene -- a woman has been the appointed prime minister since 2024, and the representation of women in the executive cabinet exceeds the 30% required by the Congolese constitution. It’s a start.

Back to International Women's Day, though...

The official provincial ceremony for International Women's day in Haut-Katanga was held in the city of Kasumbalesa. You can read Lubumbashi blogger Jules Mbuyu's coverage of the event here. A long list of dignitaries attended, including the provincial governor. Valerienne Mumba Kibokothe, the provincial minister of Gender, Family and Children of Haut-Katanga, played a leading role in the ceremony. Kimbilio Director Carine Bahati participated, speaking about Kimbilio at the event. She is pictured in the photo below on the right, accompanied by Kimbilio partner Kumi Foundation's Managing Director and Founder, Karen Britton.

This writer is biased -- the celebration for the Kimbilio girls was the one that really made my heart throb. ❤️❤️❤️ The staff offered the girls an exceptional day of sharing, joy, smiles and motivation, reminding them that they can have a good future ahead. As in the past, the big treat was a very special meal in a restaurant. Enjoy the slide show below, and look at these beautiful faces of girls who will grow up to change the world.