On 14th March 2021, Rwandans living in the Asia Pacific region joined together to celebrate the International Women's Day. 

The event was organized by Rwanda Embassies in China, Japan, South Korea, and Singapore, and Rwandan Communities in the Asia and Pacific region.

In her opening remarks, Ambassador Yasmin Amri Sued, the Ambassador of the Republic of Rwanda to the Republic of Korea, who spoke on behalf of other Ambassadors, thanked all attendees and guest speakers for their contributions to this important day. “Celebrating Women’s day as Rwandans is an opportunity to reflect on the achievements made in gender promotion in Rwanda and plan on how to overcome the challenges still at hand” she said. She took the opportunity to ask Rwandans living in that region to apply equality in their everyday life and interactions. She encouraged the youth to lead the journey to close the gender gap.

Speaking during the event, Mrs. Caritas Mukandasira, the Deputy Chief Gender Monitor started the panel discussion by saying that respecting gender equality benefits everyone."I encourage everyone in your jurisdictions to adhere to the principle of gender - equality; by giving equal opportunities in leadership, and other activities," she noted. 

Mrs. Mukandasira was echoed by the Director General of Rwanda Biomedical Centre, Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana who applauded the role of women in fight against the coronavirus pandemic. "We have witnessed the efficiency and effectiveness of our mothers, and sisters during these hard times of the global pandemic," he said adding that most of the medical personnel who are on frontline are women who work tirelessly to save the lives of the Rwandans. 

Ms. Kevine Kagirimpundu, the CEO of Uzuri K&Y, stressed the importance of recognizing the value of women in sustainable development. Empowering women is a walkway for achieving all for our government goals. 

She called on Rwandans in Diaspora to use Made in Rwanda products. "One of the tools to market our local products is using them. From where you are living, try to find at least one of the made in Rwanda product to use, your friend or neighbor will ask where you got it, and you will refer to your home country, this will encourage many people to know more about our industries". 

Mrs. Emmerance Beneyo, the Vice Chairperson of the Rwandan Community in China, who also spoke on behalf of Rwandans living in Asia - Pacific region acknowledged the government policy that enabled women's empowerment.  It's a tool for economic growth, political stability, and social transformation. 

The event was celebrated under the theme: "Women, be at the forefront in the COVID-19 World." 

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