Celebrating Women’s Day in the Maldives: Honoring Progress and Empowerment

On March 8, 2024, The Association for Gulhee Development (AGD), a partner of the Foundation in the Maldives, marked International Women’s Day (IWD) with a special event themed “Inspire Inclusion” on the island of Gulhi, situated in Kaafu Atoll (South Malé). Gulhi, inhabited by 1,005 individuals, comprising 478 females and 527 males, relies mainly on fishing and local tourism for its economy. However, entrenched gender and cultural norms limit women’s active involvement in these sectors. Consequently, there is an urgent need to support women and girls on the island by bolstering their skills and creating opportunities to enhance their socio-economic empowerment. 

AGD, a women-led nongovernmental organization in Gulhi, focuses on several critical causes, including women’s empowerment, adolescent and youth health, mental health awareness, and fostering a healthy lifestyle among youth. With support from the Foundation, AGD works with the Gulhi Women’s Development Committee to empower women and girls by facilitating greater opportunities to engage in community activities and programs.

During the IWD event, AGD raised awareness among women and girls on various health issues, emphasizing the importance of gender equality, women’s empowerment, and overall health and well-being. The event also included a Women’s Day Fair, drawing around 150 individuals from diverse backgrounds, providing a platform for dialogue, fostering connections, and inspiring action on women’s rights. Ten civil society organizations, including the Foundation’s program partners – the Maldivian Nurses Association, Addu Women’s Association, Community Empowerment Linkage, and Do Good – actively contributed to the event’s success through various stalls and awareness-raising activities.