Senegal's First Lady Absa Faye advocates for stronger women's health rights

Speaking at the opening of the first International Congress on African Women's Health, she stated that the current challenge is to fully respect women's rights and dignity in accessing healthcare, asserting that medical advancements require societal transformation to be fully effective. Faye highlighted that women's health is an "unshakable and non-negotiable human right," and no woman should be denied care due to financial status or location. She stressed that investing in women's health secures the future of communities and national development.

The First Lady also advocated for a holistic approach to female well-being, encompassing physical and mental health, and combating all forms of violence against women. She urged participants to "break taboos" surrounding mental health and strengthen psychological, judicial, and social support mechanisms for victims of violence. Addressing non-communicable diseases, Faye underscored the importance of preventing female cancers, particularly cervical cancer, calling HPV vaccination an "essential" strategy for protecting young girls.

She assured attendees that she would closely follow the congress's recommendations and present them to the country's highest authorities.