United Nations Population Fund chief Thoraya Obaid has said that the best way to realise the millennium development goals is to invest more in women and girls.
In her message to mark the International Women`s Day, the UNFPA executive director noted: ``It is good to invest in women and girls, and it pays to do so.
``UNFPA reaffirms that investing in women and girls is one of the best investments governments can make.
``Investing in women means investing in families, communities and nations.
When women have resources, they tend to spend them on education and health for their children, who then face better employment and life prospects. In every region, increased women`s participation and earnings result in reduced poverty and faster economic growth,`` she said.
She said if Africa wants to achieve the MDGs it has to investment more in women and girls, adding that investing in women gives high returns for women themselves and for the world at large.
Obaid said political commitments have been taken to institute policies and allocate the necessary resources to achieve a world where women are healthy, safe and in control of their own lives.
UNFPA Tanzania representative Nicole Jones said the UN system recognizes and applauds Tanzania`s increased commitment to promoting maternal and newborn health.
In a statement issued yesterday, Jones commended Tanzania for taking steps towards gender equality.
source: The Guardian, 08/3/2008
by patrick kisembo
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