Gender Equality

The challenge: We have seen significant reductions in global poverty since 1990, but not everyone has benefitted equally. Hundreds of millions of women and girls are still poor and remain disproportionately affected by poverty, including unequal access to resources, opportunities, and choices. According to UN women, not a single country in the world can claim to have achieved gender equality. Women and girls continue to face obstacles in law and culture which translate to a world where they are undervalued, work more, earn less, have fewer choices, and experience violence at home and in public.

Our solution: We strive towards a future where gender does not determine status, power to make decisions, or access to resources and services – a world where women, men, girls, and boys can all reach their full potential. We promote gender equality in all of our programs by engaging women and men, girls and boys, to address the underlying beliefs and practices that create and reinforce gender inequalities. We also empower the disadvantaged, whether male or female, to develop confidence and skills and take control over their lives, and invest in institutions and relationships that facilitate an environment that supports gender equality.

Volunteering and saving lives: Meet Gul Mahoor

Gul Mahoor volunteers as manager of her community’s health relief fund in Pakistan.

Afghanistan today: An interview with Dr. Najmuddin Najm, CEO of AKF Afghanistan

An insight into the current crisis in Afghanistan, how AKF is responding and why hope endures.

A solar panel outside a village house in Pemba, Mozambique.

Accelerating Women Climate Entrepreneurs (AWCE)

AWCE contributes to poverty reduction by identifying and promoting good practices to support women entrepreneurs in climate-related value chains.

In A Heartbeat: Expanding possibilities

In this short film, we learn how facilities like this one in Montepuez are growing to accommodate the needs of young Mozambicans. 

In A Heartbeat: Starting the conversation

Teresa is a youth peer mentor in Mozambique, who educates her peers about their reproductive and sexual health and rights.

Foundations for brighter futures: Illustrating Canadian support for education systems in Africa and Asia

Canadian investments in education are making a world of difference for girls and boys in Africa and Asia. The Foundations

Foundations for brighter futures: Illustrating Canadian support for girls’ education in crisis contexts

An illustration of how Canadian investments in education are making a world of difference for young women and girls.

Spotlight on Yasmin Karim, Gender Advisor for Aga Khan Foundation, Pakistan

“Over my career, I have seen many gender advocates evolve and emerge. Society has also been transformed.”

Spotlight on Jennifer Elms, Gender Advisor at AKFC and AKF-US

“My hope would be that gender equality becomes so part of everybody’s DNA that integrating gender and using a gender lens will be a part of everyone.”