On this International Women’s Day 2026, we embrace the theme “Give to Gain.” It is a powerful reminder that progress is not accidental — it is the result of deliberate investment. If we want inclusive development, accountable governance, and sustainable peace, we must be willing to give — resources, space, influence, and opportunity — to women and girls.

For women, “Give to Gain” is not charity. It is justice.

When societies give women equal access to education and economic opportunity, they gain stronger and more resilient economies.
When institutions give women meaningful seats at decision-making tables, they gain more durable peace.
When governments give protection and justice to survivors of violence, they gain social trust and stability.

In the development and security space, evidence consistently shows that gender equality is not peripheral — it is foundational. Peace agreements are more likely to last when women are involved. Communities are more resilient when women lead local mediation and conflict prevention efforts. Exclusion is costly; inclusion is transformative.

At the Foundation for Security and Development in Africa (FOSDA), this theme speaks directly to our work on the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) agenda, grounded in United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325. For over two decades, this landmark resolution has affirmed the critical role of women in peacebuilding, conflict prevention, protection, and recovery.

However, commitments without resources remain rhetoric.

To truly “Give to Gain,” there must be deliberate and sustained investment in National Action Plans on UNSCR 1325. These plans must be adequately funded, decentralized, and monitored to ensure that implementation moves beyond Accra and national capitals into districts and communities. Investing in National Action Plans means investing in prevention, in protection, and in participation. It means recognizing and resourcing grassroots women leaders — including queen mothers, women’s groups, and community peacebuilders — who are already sustaining peace on the ground.

Giving to women through well-funded and accountable WPS frameworks strengthens national security, deepens democratic governance, and accelerates development outcomes.

This International Women’s Day, we call on governments, development partners, and all stakeholders to move from symbolic inclusion to structural investment. Let us give intentionally — through policy, through budgets, and through political will.

Because when we give women the tools, the power, and the protection they deserve, we gain peace that lasts and development that is truly inclusive.

Happy International Women’s Day 2026.
Foundation for Security and Development in Africa (FOSDA)