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During the 80th United Nations General Assembly High-Level Week, I was deeply encouraged by the convening at the UN headquarters of the third Annual Global Leaders Network event, Recommitting to Women’s, Children’s and Adolescents’ Health and Rights: A Call to Action for Peace, Security, and Sustainable Development. Convened under the leadership of His Excellency President Cyril Ramaphosa, President of the Republic of South Africa, as Chair of the GLN, and supported by the World Health Organization Partnership for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (PMNCH), this distinguished gathering reaffirmed that the health and rights of women, children, and adolescents are not only matters of social progress, but the very foundation of peace, security, and sustainable development.
I also warmly recognise the presence and commitment of His Excellency President William Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya, His Excellency President Duma Gideon Boko, President of the Republic of Botswana, and His Excellency Muhammad B.S. Jallow, Vice President of Gambia. Their united voices highlighted Africa’s determination to place women, children, and adolescents at the heart of the global agenda.
Further deliberations highlighted that health and security are inseparable, and in fragile and humanitarian settings, women and children bear the greatest burdens of instability. In this context, the recognition of vectors and vector-borne diseases, from malaria to dengue, was particularly significant. These threats, which disproportionately endanger women and children, must be addressed through integrated strategies that strengthen health systems, reinforce environmental management, and empower communities.
As Founder-President of the Wellbeing Foundation Africa, I stand with the Global Leaders Network and PMNCH in affirming that no woman, child, or adolescent should be left behind. Our shared future depends upon sustained high-level engagement, measurable commitments, and the translation of global pledges into tangible action.
The e-health check tool is available for free at https://covid19.wbfafrica.org/ and users can access real-time updates on how to stay connected, safe, and healthy during the pandemic on Instagram and Twitter @Wellbeing_PPMD, and @WellbeingPPMD on Facebook.
