By: Annicette Kemneloum, National Gender Specialist, Chad
In Chad, women and girls, although they make up a significant portion of the population, face numerous challenges related to gender inequality. These inequalities remain a major obstacle in a country affected by successive crises and climate phenomena, which have particular repercussions on women. The lack of awareness about women’s rights, insufficient enforcement of laws, harmful social norms and practices, as well as poverty and the absence of basic social services, constitute significant challenges to overcome.
In a world where these inequalities persist, the family remains the primary space for socialization and the transmission of values. However, it is also within this intimate sphere that the first gender stereotypes and gender-based violence are formed, thus influencing the roles of women and men in society.
Promoting the gender equality-based family model, within the framework of the Lake Chad Basin Conservation Project, is far from a mere dream: it is a necessity to build a future where no one is left behind.
On this International Women’s Day 2025, under the global theme “For ALL women and girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment,” it is legitimate to ask: Should the family be the breeding ground for inequality, or a means of transformation and harmonious coexistence?
From childhood, girls and boys are often raised according to societal expectations. Girls are taught to be docile, quiet, and devoted to domestic tasks, while boys are encouraged to be ambitious, leaders, strong, and independent. These gender roles influence their entire life trajectory, unless there is awareness or access to information. This phenomenon leads to the underrepresentation of women in decision-making spheres and their lack of access to essential resources.
However, in Chadian society, many families, by questioning these norms, have created a positive and lasting impact. A girl growing up in a household where her opinion is valued and where responsibilities are shared between her parents will be more likely to claim her rights and pursue her ambitions. Similarly, a boy who learns that tenderness and listening are strengths will become a man capable of building healthy and respectful relationships.
When women, young women, and adolescent girls are empowered, society as a whole progresses. An educated, economically independent woman who is free to make her own choices actively contributes to the development of her community. Studies show that when a woman earns an income, she primarily reinvests it in the education and health of her children, thus breaking the cycle of poverty.
But this empowerment begins at home. A woman who participates in family decisions on matters such as child education, finances, or access to resources instills values of equality and respect in her children, whether they are girls or boys.
On this March 8, 2025, we call for a transformation of families, so that change becomes a shared responsibility, involving not only women but also men and youth.
Parents are invited to offer their daughters and sons equal opportunities and shared responsibilities. Men are encouraged to become allies of equality by sharing domestic tasks and supporting women’s leadership in their communities. Policymakers must integrate the concept of “Gender-Based Model Family” into public policies, ensuring the promotion of education free from gender stereotypes and supporting laws that foster equity within households. Finally, the media is urged to report stories that highlight family models where men and women take on diverse roles, far from traditional stereotypes.
Equality begins at home.