Rwanda's remarkable transformation from a war-torn nation to one of the fastest-growing economies in sub-Saharan Africa is a remarkable narrative of resilience, strategic policymaking, and innovative social reforms. The nation's escape from the poverty trap offers valuable lessons for other developing countries aiming to break free from the shackles of poverty.

A crucial aspect of this transformation has been the change in cultural attitudes towards women, highlighting how gender equality can spur economic development across the region. The International Conference on Gender Equality scheduled to take place in Ghana on 26-27th November 2024, provides a critical platform to address crucial issues and advocate for effective solutions.

The Role of Cultural Attitudes and Gender in Economic Development

In the quest to understand why some countries progress more swiftly than others, cultural attitudes often emerge as a critical factor. However, attributing poverty solely to culture can be oversimplified and disrespectful. It's essential to recognize that culture is not static; it evolves, much like economic structures. A significant aspect of cultural evolution is the changing attitudes towards women and other marginalized groups. While culture undeniably influences economic development, it is not an unchangeable destiny. Attitudes can and should evolve in ways that support sustainable growth.

One of the most pivotal cultural beliefs affecting sustainable development is the attitude towards women. Legal rights, labour force participation, and the presence of discrimination are key indicators. Gender equality also extends into the political realm, where cultural attitudes play a substantial role. The variations in gender equality worldwide significantly impact economic development.

No society in the world is entirely free from gender discrimination due to a long history of bias. It has taken immense political effort, social mobilisation, and courageous actions by women to overcome these barriers, even in nations close to achieving gender equality today. Nonetheless, many regions still present significant obstacles to women's economic and political participation. The consequences of this are clear: societies that marginalize half of their population inevitably fall behind those that empower all citizens.

Over the past thirty years, the world has witnessed significant strides in gender equality, although progress remains uneven. Rwanda serves as a remarkable case study. With a parliament that is 61 per cent female, Rwanda boasts the highest proportion of women in any parliament globally. Female political participation has surged, and Rwanda's example illustrates the profound impact of women's empowerment on national progress. Beyond politics, Rwanda has achieved significant reductions in child mortality and improvements in education and social conditions. These advancements highlight the critical role of women's political participation in the country's development.

The UN Sustainable Development Goals

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), established by the United Nations in 2017, provide an extensive and integrated framework aimed at fostering a sustainable, equitable, and prosperous future on a global scale. These goals are designed to enhance socioeconomic and environmental well-being, with the ultimate objective of uplifting individual lives by eliminating poverty and hunger, promoting dignity and equality, safeguarding the environment, and securing the welfare of both present and future generations.

Within this framework, two pivotal goals—SDG 5.1 and SDG 10—focus on mitigating discrimination and inequalities, with a particular emphasis on gender disparities, which are especially pertinent to the subject under discussion.

A fundamental component of sustainable development is the acknowledgement and advancement of women’s rights and equality. SDG 5.1 is committed to the eradication of all forms of discrimination against women and girls, recognizing that deep-rooted cultural attitudes and systemic biases frequently impede their full participation in society. This goal underscores the necessity of legal protections, equitable opportunities in the workforce, and the abolition of discriminatory practices as crucial benchmarks of progress. By addressing these critical issues, SDG 5.1 seeks to ensure that women and girls are empowered to contribute fully and equally to societal development, thereby promoting a more inclusive and just world.

SDG 10, on the other hand, emphasizes the importance of confronting the inequalities that hinder social, economic, and political inclusion for all. This goal calls for the rectification of systemic disparities that disproportionately impact marginalised groups, including women. By striving to reduce income inequality, bolster social protection systems, and guarantee equal opportunities for all individuals, SDG 10 endeavours to construct societies where every person, regardless of gender, can thrive without encountering barriers of discrimination and exclusion.

SDG 5.1 and SDG 10 constitute an essential component of the global initiative to diminish discrimination and inequalities, ensuring that women, girls, and other marginalised groups are allowed to live with dignity, equality, and respect.

Rwanda's Ongoing Poverty Escape: The Role of Visionary Leadership and Gender Equality

Rwanda's economic revival is often attributed to several key factors. Visionary leadership and governance, particularly under President Paul Kagame, have been central to this transformation. Post-genocide, the government’s Vision 2020 plan laid the foundation for economic development through strategic investments in infrastructure, education, gender equality, and healthcare. Substantial investments in education and healthcare have been critical to human capital development, resulting in a healthier, more educated workforce essential for sustained economic growth.

A pivotal element in Rwanda's economic success has been the promotion of gender equality. The high representation of women in parliament has translated into gender-sensitive policies and a more inclusive approach to development. Rwanda has enacted laws that promote gender equality, including those related to inheritance, property rights, and labour, ensuring that women have equal opportunities to participate in economic activities.

Significant strides have been made in educating girls and women, leading to higher literacy rates and improved skills among women. Education empowers women to contribute effectively to the economy and make informed decisions about their lives. Support for women entrepreneurs, through training, mentorship, and access to finance, has enabled women to start and grow businesses, contributing to economic diversification and growth.

Lessons from Rwanda: Gender Equality as a Catalyst for Sustainable Development

Rwanda's success story sends a powerful message to nations still lagging in gender equality: achieving sustainable development in the twenty-first century requires mobilising all citizens, not just half. Rwanda's experience demonstrates that empowering women is not only a moral imperative but also a pragmatic strategy for national progress.

Rwanda's experience offers several lessons for other developing countries seeking to escape the poverty trap. Promoting gender equality and empowering women can drive economic development. Legal reforms, educational opportunities, and support for women entrepreneurs are essential steps. Investments in education and healthcare are fundamental for developing a skilled and healthy workforce. Changing cultural attitudes towards women for economic development in sub-Saharan Africa is crucial.

Traditional gender roles and discrimination against women remain significant barriers to development. Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive approach that includes changing cultural attitudes through education, enacting and enforcing laws that protect women's rights, engaging communities in discussions about gender equality, and establishing networks and mentorship programs for women.

The International Conference on Gender Equality in Ghana: Learning from Rwanda to Drive Global Progress

This discussion is particularly relevant as Ghana prepares to host the upcoming International Conference on Gender Equality. Organised by the ‘’I Believe Global organisation,’’ a prominent international advocacy group dedicated to promoting gender equality,  the conference aims to foster dialogue, share best practices, and develop strategies to promote gender equality.  Rwanda's achievements offer valuable lessons for stakeholders from various sectors.

The International Conference on Gender Equality in Ghana is a timely and significant event. It underscores the importance of cultural attitudes towards women in shaping economic and social development. By learning from Rwanda's successes and addressing the remaining challenges, countries worldwide can work towards a more equitable and prosperous future. The conference will not only highlight the importance of gender equality but also inspire concrete actions to empower women, driving sustainable development globally.

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The writer, Rachel Akosua Lundgren, is the president of 'I Believe Global