First Lady Arya Ali and U.S. Ambassador Sarah-Ann Lynch have been recognised for their work in “the advancement and development of women” by the Guyana arm of the American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) as Guyana joins other countries in celebrating International Women’s Day.
“The role that Ambassador Lynch played in the struggle to maintain Guyana’s democratic status, to maintain our freedoms and civil liberties can never be understated. Her activism during Guyana’s most difficult and turbulent times gave the nation an iota of light when hope was fading,” the Chamber stated.
Similarly, AmCham said First Lady Arya Ali has made numerous important contributions to our nation since taking the oath of office through developmental and philanthropic works. AmCham recognizes the role of such activism in the beautification of our nation and to serve those downtrodden and most in need.
“AmCham is honored and privileged to honor both of these amazing women today and remain committed to creating a sustainable atmosphere for women to thrive and access equal opportunity,” the Chamber said in a statement.
AmCham noted that women globally have made an immense and profound contribution to the wellbeing of humanity through every sphere of life which includes but is not restricted to science, technology, arts, politics, and social activism. It pointed out that as recent as last month, Dr. Swati Mohan of the National Space Agency (NASA) in the United States played a pivotal role in NASA’s landing and exploration of Mars.
In Guyana, the Chamber noted that great strides have been made towards narrowing the gender gap and advancing the economic, social, and political roles of women.
AmCham noted that according to an ILO 2017 study, Guyana has one of the highest
amount of women in upper management and CEOs in the Caribbean. ILO data also shows women account for more than 70% of University graduates, the highest in the Caribbean and one of the highest globally. It said too women are also well represented in politics via the parliament and cabinet appointments.
However, despite these strides, AmCham said it remains concerned about the discrimination and rampant gender based violence that continues to be meted out to women.
“We must work together to combat this scourge and accelerate gender equality.”
