“It means a lot for Africa … for the continent; unity and the empowerment of women…” Zuma said. The Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni had this to say, “She is a freedom fighter, not a bureaucrat or a diplomat. It is encouraging to note that male leaders are fast embracing and recognizing women leadership as a beacon for sustainable development.”
Dlamini-Zuma, a doctor by training, has 38 years of servitude in various leadership positions in Africa. One of her first highlights was when she was elected Vice President of South African Students Organization in 1976.
“The millennium has witnessed a significant change and attitudinal shift in society’s thoughts about women’s equality and empowerment. The longevity and ingrained complexity of patriarchy forces societies to think that men are ideal leaders and decision makers,” said WILD in a statement.