We came mainly because we have many proposals that will empower citizens and enable them to bring about positive change, but also because the UN is a place of power where important decisions are made that govern local and national policies. We are here to promote common strategies which allow us to achieve gender equality at all levels of life. No matter the difference in strategy it would seem that what we have in common is the neccesity to establish a free flow of information. This will not only ensure that we reach better strategic positions in terms of quality and quantity, but will also provide a mechanism to ensure that the political process and areas of negotiation are transparent.
Information is power.
We are convinced that globalization and the emerging information society will either advance the status of women in society or reinforce their marginalization. African women already network and organize actions themselves. Appropriate application of ICTs can enable women to access information and knowledge which can assist in overcoming the realities of poverty and exclusion. The development of ICTs is taking place in a global context of gender inequalities. In Africa disparities exist amongst women in terms of access to education, land, credit, literacy etc.