I wish to join with the women all around the world but especially those in Guyana who are today celebrating yet another International Women’s Day.

Over the past century, women have continued to make strides in all facets of human endeavour and in most countries of the world. Guyana is no exception to this trend.

Guyanese women continue to elevate and distinguish themselves in our country’s political, social and economic life. They continue to make an immeasurable and invaluable contribution both in and outside of the home. I extend best wishes to these heroines and I hope that on this day that due recognition would be given to their efforts.

I am however mindful of the fact that despite the impressive gains made by women internationally and locally, there remains many challenges that hinder the potential and full development of women and the safeguarding of their dignity. It is my hope that on this International Women’s Day there would be a dispassionate examination of these challenges which confront women in their quest for greater equality and respect in society. I believe that such an examination will help to highlight the many hurdles that women face and will allow for more focused and nuanced strategies to be developed so as to help our women overcome the obstacles they face.

As we therefore celebrate the tremendous strides made by our women, as we hail their bravery and courage, as we celebrate their achievements and respect their choices, let us also recognise that there remains much work to be done in the advancement of equal rights and increased dignity for our women.

On this special day dedicated to the women of the world, let us join hands in saluting their achievements. Let us also join hearts in our continued pursuit of their equality and betterment for all women worldwide.

Happy International Women’s Day!