Three decades ago, women in Rwanda couldn’t own land, get a job or own a bank account without their husband’s written consent. At some point, women couldn’t pursue any career other than teaching or nursing. The place of a respectable woman was being an outstanding homemaker. Today, although not on a perfect scale, women are seen everywhere, in all careers, and decision-making positions, among other walks of life. The World Economic Forum ranks Rwanda as the most gender-equal country in Africa and sixth in the world. On March 8 every year, the world observes International Women’s Day, an essential part of the women’s rights drive designed to celebrate women and also address issues such as gender equality, and violence and abuse against women. In light of this, The New Times has compiled photos of a cross-section of women in their respective fields of work that are male-dominated.
