By UNFPA East and Southern Africa and Regional Director Lydia Zigomo
As the year draws to a close, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all of you—UNFPA staff, partners, and the communities we serve across East and Southern Africa. Together, we have faced the challenges of 2024 with our ability to bounce back and our optimistic spirit, making strides towards a region where every woman, every girl, and every young person can realize their full potential.
This year, I traveled across our beautiful region, from Addis Ababa to Antananarivo, witnessing first-hand the transformative impact of our collective work. In Burundi, youth volunteers showed us the power of local action. In Namibia, the #BeFree Youth Campus became a safe haven for young people. And in Zimbabwe, the One-Stop-Centres stood as shelters of support for survivors of violence, embodying the compassion and commitment that defines our mission.
2024 also brought its share of crises, from climate shocks to economic uncertainties. Yet, together, we rose to the occasion, overcoming obstacles and laying the groundwork for lasting change. Your dedication has made a real difference in advancing gender equality, ensuring access to reproductive health services, and empowering communities to build a brighter future.
As we look ahead to 2025, let us carry forward the lessons, achievements, and hope of this year. Let us continue to dream big and work together to transform lives, leaving no one behind.
From all of us at UNFPA East and Southern Africa, I wish you a joyful holiday season and a prosperous New Year. Thank you for being part of this journey and for making hope a reality. Together, we are delivering a world where every choice is celebrated, and every dream is nurtured.
Discover the stories of 2024 through a gallery of artwork created by UNFPA in East and Southern Africa. These pieces celebrate the power of women, girls, and communities, telling their extraordinary stories. They reflect our commitment to advancing sexual and reproductive health, championing gender equality, and uplifting lives across the region. Each creation goes beyond art, capturing the courage and extraordinary tenacity of women and girls as they overcome challenges and build a brighter future. These artworks are symbols of progress, marking strides toward a region of empowerment and equality. Join us in celebrating the artistry, dignity, and spirit of East and Southern Africa in 2024, and the transformative impact of UNFPA’s mission in the region.
Year-end Message 2024
