In a recent interview,
Leonor Epam Biribe, Minister of Social Affairs and Promotion of Women, discussed
her government’s initiatives for improving the status and condition of women in
Equatorial Guinea.
The government
of Equatorial Guinea has invested heavily in programs that benefit women and to
address some of the challenges the female population faces. “My goals are now the same as before: to
continue working in favor of women and children,” said Minister Epam Biribe.
Women have
noticed positive changes in recent years as the government has invested in
housing, training of women, and programs that benefit families. “Many things have improved,” said Minister Epam
Biribe. “Our effort has not gone to waste, and women are now aware of the
effort made by this ministry and value it. Many women receive professional
training and enroll in talks and many courses we organize. These projects have
been able to improve their performance and capacity.”
Because education is fundamental to improving
opportunities and living standards, Equatorial Guinea has carried out a
campaign aimed at parents over several years that stressed the
importance of educating both men and women. “The results can be seen in the
enrollment of schools and universities that are very high in women, almost the
same number as in men,” said Minister Epam Biribe. “That is a very significant accomplishment.”
Equatorial Guinea’s First Lady, Constancia
Mangue Nsue de Obiang, has helped change the view that society has of
women in Equatorial Guinea. Educating women is one of her top priorities. Her
continuous involvement in activities to promote social development has made her
a leading figure in changing the status of women in Equatorial Guinea. “She has
provided many grants and loans through associations, boosting the economy of
women,” said Minister Biribe.
Minister
Leonor Epam Biribe started working in the Social Affairs and
Promotion of Women sector in 1998. She has worked with the Association of Women,
was president of the Secondhand Clothes Market. She was the first Inspector
General of Services of the Ministry, Regional Delegate, State Secretary and
Vice Minister. Minister Biribe is the current National Executive President of
the Women's Organization of the Democratic Party of Equatorial Guinea (PDGE).
