Ambassador's Speeches

Speech at the International Women's Day Conference on Family Planning and the Economic Development of Women
March 18, 2008

(as prepared for delivery)

It is an honor and a privilege to join you here today, not only to discuss the very pertinent issues of family planning and economic empowerment for women, but to also celebrate the critical role that women play in securing peace and social progress around the world.  This is true in my country, where we consider the rights and freedom of women to be fundamental human rights and where we are proud to witness women continuing to reach new political and economic heights; it is also particularly true in Mali where women play an extremely critical role in your country’s development.

Since my arrival in Mali almost three years ago, I have been amazed and inspired to witness the devotion and energy that women in this country rain down upon their husbands, children, extended families, and communities.  In every one of my visits to the eight regions of Mali, from Kayes to Kidal, I have had the honor of meeting women who are working against incredible odds to contribute to the social and economic development of their villages, communities, and country.

I particularly remember a visit to Sikasso where I met a group of women who had created a potato co-operative and, despite a lack of formal education, were succeeding in creating resources and providing for their community.  I also had the pleasure of meeting one of a handful of young girls from Kidal who had completed their Bac.  She, like many women across this country, worked hard in school to ensure a better future for herself and her family.  I am pleased to say that she recently, and courageously, accepted the generous offer from an American university of a full scholarship, and she will be leaving later this year for the United States.  I am confident that she, like many sisters and mothers around Mali, will contribute to the development of your country, region, and continent in the years to come.

As many of you know, President Amadou Toumani Touré recently visited with President Bush at the White House.  During this meeting, President Touré spoke proudly of the important role that women play in his country and particularly mentioned the success that Malian women have had in the use of micro-finance – one of the many ways that women are finding economic independence and empowerment today.

As you will hear from our experts, the issues of family planning and economic empowerment go hand in hand.  We are extremely proud to join forces with Save the Children in highlighting these important topics and in supporting the important work that Save the Children, USAID, and countless other organizations are doing to support women and children in Mali.

Malian history, through the story of Sundiata and Sogolon, shows the power of both a mother’s love and the love of a child for his mother.  May this powerful example inspire the modern day heroes and heroines in Mali, the United States, and around the world who are working every day to make a better future for our children.

Thank you.