African gender index 2023 analytical report: African women in times of crisis

Abstract

The Africa Gender Index (AGI) is an authoritative source of data on gender equality and women’s empowerment in Africa. It draws together statistics from all 54 African countries across three dimensions (economic, social and empowerment & representation) into a single index. This enables African countries to track not only their own progress over time but also against regional peers. This second edition of the Index, following its launch in 2019, comes at a particularly challenging time for African women and girls. Africa has emerged from the COVID-19 pandemic only to be confronted with complex new crises, including rising food insecurity, global economic turbulence and a looming debt crisis. Conflict and political instability are on the rise, and the accelerating impacts of climate change are taking an increasing toll on the continent. These shocks impact women and men differently and have the potential to undermine Africa’s progress in empowering women. The theme of this report is, therefore, “African women in times of crisis”. Overall, AGI has improved between 2019 and 2023, with significant variations across dimensions, regions and countries. This report also provides analysis and commentary based on the AGI data. Drawing on recent literature and consultations with gender experts across the continent, the commentary draws out patterns and trends in the data and presents possible explanations. It also compiles examples of successful policy initiatives and programs at country level that have helped to drive progress towards gender equality.