“Hope is not lost” – First Lady Arya Ali during International Women’s Day Walk

…calls for end to violence against women

In observance of International Women’s Day 2026, under the theme “Rights, Justice and Action for All Women and Girls,” the Office of the First Lady on Sunday hosted a walk through Georgetown.
Hundreds of women participated in the initiative, creating a sea of purple as they moved through the city in solidarity.
Addressing participants, First Lady Arya Ali took a moment to remember several female victims of violence, stressing that Guyana must continue its efforts to maintain strong standards in protecting women and advancing their rights.
She said that intimate partner violence continues to have devastating effects on families, robbing them of mothers, daughters and sisters and leaving grief that reverberates across communities and the nation.

The First Lady noted that the number of killings resulting from domestic or intimate partner violence serves as a stark reminder of the significant work that still lies ahead.
She further explained that, in response to this challenge, the government has taken meaningful institutional steps over the last five years to protect women in vulnerable situations and hold perpetrators accountable through legislative and policy reforms, including the enactment of the Family Violence Act.
“Victims like Kenesha Vaughn were mothers, sisters, daughters and friends whose futures were cut short, leaving behind not just grieving families but an entire nation. The tragic death of 14-year-old Aleena Preetam, a teenage mother who passed away shortly after giving birth, and 15-year-old Tiana Chapman, another teenage mother who was stabbed 25 times, underscore the difficult circumstances that little girls, not women, continue to endure at the hands of violent men.

Hope is not lost
“But hope is not lost, and that is why we are here today. As much as we are here to celebrate the successes we have made over the years, it is important for us to use this moment to reflect individually and collectively on our role in helping to make our society a safer and better one for our women,” she said.
In her view, the continued raising of voices on these issues will help bring about change.
“Once we continue to raise our voices like we are today, and with brothers like those of you who are here today who understand our plight and have chosen to join our fight, we will be able to dismantle those structures and break the toxic culture that undermines the dignity of our women and girls.
She stated that at the policy level, efforts will continue to focus on reviewing and reforming systems and processes to ensure they meet the needs of every woman and girl, regardless of their circumstances.
She also stressed the importance of recognising both individual and collective responsibilities within homes, schools, places of worship and communities, while supporting existing systems designed to protect and empower women and girls.

The world would not be what it is
Meanwhile Human Services and Social Security Minister, Dr Vindhya Persaud also addressed the gathering, where she spoke about the various programmes her ministry offers to assist and empower women.
She delivered a message encouraging women to recognise the value they bring to society.
“As we continue to celebrate the day and the month, I wish that you see yourselves as leaders, as champions and as advocates. I wish that you see yourselves with all the confidence in the world.

“I want you this morning [Sunday] to acknowledge the wins that you have had in life — the tiny ones, the really big ones and the extraordinary moments that make you who you are. Without you in the world, without your presence, the world would not be what it is,” she said.

People-centered approach
Chinese Ambassador to Guyana Yang Yang also spoke at the event.
Ambassador Yang noted that the partnership between Guyana and China continues to grow and emphasised that there will be increased support and collaboration between the two countries to assist and empower women.
She stated that for many years China’s government has pursued gender equality through a people-centered approach, viewing it as an essential component of sustainable development and public well-being.
It was noted that both countries share a common commitment to promoting gender equality and empowering women, and that their cooperation has produced meaningful results and contributed significantly to the global advancement of women.
“Across our two countries, women are gaining greater access to education and playing even more important roles in economic, political, cultural and social life. Many have stepped onto the international stage, showcasing talent, vision and strength.
“Looking forward, China and Guyana will continue to work side by side to reduce women’s poverty and discrimination in all its forms and help more women realise their dreams for a better life,” the ambassador said.
“Our two nations share the same commitment to gender equality and women’s empowerment. Together, we have delivered meaningful results and made a great contribution to the global cause of women’s advancement.”