Africa Global Logistics Sierra Leone (AGL) marked the commemoration of International Women’s Day on Thursday, 7th March 2024, at its headquarters in Freetown under the theme “Inspiring Inclusion.” The event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including government officials, business leaders, civil society representatives, and members of the media.
Addressing the attendees, Bertrand Kerguelen, Country Manager at Africa Global Logistics Sierra Leone, expressed gratitude for their presence and reiterated the company’s commitment to promoting gender equality. Kerguelen emphasized the importance of empowering women and creating more opportunities for them within the organization.
“We firmly believe that gender equality is not solely a women’s issue but a human rights and an issue that impacts us all. As a company, we are dedicated to advancing women and revising our policies to ensure that women have equal opportunities to thrive,” stated Kerguelen.
Gassimu Fofanah, the Communication Manager at AGL, underscored the significance of International Women’s Day, as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for gender equality. He called on everyone to commit to taking action each day to foster a more inclusive and equitable world for all.
“As we celebrate the accomplishments of women today, let us carry forward the spirit of empowerment, equality, and appreciation for women’s achievements in our daily lives. Together, we can create a world where every woman’s voice is heard, rights are respected, and potentials are realized,” Fofanah concluded.
Human Rights Lawyer, Rashid Dumbuya Esq, provided context on the importance of the United Nations Women’s Day, highlighting the need to acknowledge and address the persistent challenges faced by women in society. Dumbuya emphasized the necessity of celebrating women’s achievements, while actively working towards gender parity in all aspects of life.
Marian Kaikai, CEO at Madam Yokie Foundation, commended AGL for prioritizing International Women’s Day and called for a shift in men’s attitudes and behaviours towards women. She stressed the importance of sharing responsibilities equally at home and in the workplace, advocating for the empowerment and support of women in their personal and professional endeavours.
Drawing from her journey, Binta Kadul, owner of Binta Kadul Restaurant, shared her story of starting with humble beginnings and persevering to establish a successful business. Kabul encouraged women to remain focused on their goals, believe in themselves, and actively pursue their aspirations.
The event concluded with a collective commitment from all participants to continue advocating for gender equality and empowering women in Sierra Leone. The commemoration of International Women’s Day at Africa Global Logistics Sierra Leone served as a poignant reminder of the critical importance of inclusion, empowerment, and support for women across all sectors of society.