Kwe Trust celebrates International Women’s Day 2025 by recounting its efforts in past years and looking to the future at the initiatives we have undertaken towards achieving gender equality and recognizing the impact and role of women in our society.
History of International Women’s Day
International Women’s Day (IWD) is an annual celebration held on the 8th of March to recognize the social, economic, and political achievements of women globally to raise awareness and encourage efforts toward gender equality.
This international holiday was officially commemorated on March 19, 1911, in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland. Later, Russian women adopted March 8th as the official date while protesting against the Russian monarchy. Centuries later, the 8th of March remains the date when we celebrate women worldwide through marches and various advocacy efforts.
Kwe Trust’s Impact: For ALL women and girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment.
Kwe Trust is committed to advancing gender equality by empowering women through mentorship and advocacy. This year’s theme for International Women’s Day, “For ALL women and girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment,” emphasizes the need to ensure equal rights and opportunities for everyone and foster a society where no one is left behind. This International Women’s Day presents an opportunity to reflect upon Kwe Trust’s efforts towards realizing its mission.
Looking back, in November 2024, Kwe Trust participated in the Community Awareness Walk to End Violence Against Women and Girls. In partnership with Kibera Gender Advocacy Network (KGAN) and other stakeholders, the event reinforced the importance of solidarity and action against gender-based violence.
With 1 in 3 women experiencing violence in their lifetime, this march was a testament to Kwe’s mission to build safer, more equitable communities for all. Aligned with the overarching goal of International Women’s Day, it reinforced the fundamental truth that women’s rights must be respected, honored and upheld as human rights.
Looking ahead, Kwe Trust is committed to fostering opportunities for young women and girls through the Usawa na Ustawi Initiative, which focuses on mentorship and empowerment through debate and public speaking. This initiative aims to equip young girls with the skills and confidence to express themselves and advocate for their rights. By amplifying their voices, the initiative aligns with the broader mission of International Women’s Day, reinforcing the importance of women having a platform and the support to take their place in society.
These efforts are a reminder today and in the future to acknowledge and honor the challenges women overcome to reach success socially, economically, and politically. Despite the systemic barriers they face, they are strong, determined, and equal.
To the women reading this, we see you, we appreciate you, we celebrate you.
Happy International Women’s Day to you!