Rwanda has emerged as a global leader in terms of women's representation in national parliament, with an impressive 63.8% of its parliamentary seats held by women. This milestone is a testament to the country's commitment to gender equality and inclusive governance.

The data, courtesy of the Inter-Parliamentary Union's database, highlights the progress made by several African countries in promoting women's participation in politics. The top 10 list includes South Africa, Cabo Verde, Ethiopia, Senegal, Namibia, Mozambique, Angola, Burundi, and Tanzania, with Rwanda standing out as a shining example.

The journey towards gender-balanced governance has been a long and challenging one. Since the early 20th century, countries like New Zealand, Finland, and the United States have led the way in granting women the right to vote and run for office. Targeted efforts such as gender quotas, reserved seats, and advocacy for equal representation have significantly increased the presence of women in parliaments across the world.

Despite this progress, numerous obstacles still hinder women's full inclusion in leadership roles. Deeply rooted cultural beliefs, systemic discrimination, financial limitations, and institutional barriers continue to create an uneven playing field for women in politics. The influence of traditional cultural norms, lack of institutional support, and weak institutional frameworks are some of the persistent challenges that need to be addressed.

The theme for the International Women's Day (IWD) 2025 campaign, 'Accelerate Action,' stresses the urgent need for swift and decisive measures to close the gender gap. As the world pushes for greater gender equality, it is essential to recognize and learn from the successes of countries like Rwanda, Sweden, Finland, and Iceland, which have made significant strides in promoting inclusive leadership.

The top 10 list serves as a reminder that there is still much work to be done to achieve gender parity in governance. However, it also provides a beacon of hope and inspiration for women across Africa and the world, demonstrating that with determination and collective effort, a more equal and just society is within reach.

As we move forward, it is crucial to continue monitoring progress, addressing challenges, and celebrating successes. By doing so, we can create a world where women have equal opportunities to participate in politics and contribute to shaping the future of their countries and communities.