Gender Focal Point Cells from Nine Ministries Convene in Kpalimé for Governance Workshop
From September 9 to 11, thirty representatives from Gender Focal Point Cells (GFPCs) across nine Togolese sectoral ministries gathered in Kpalimé for a capacity-building workshop focused on governance and gender mainstreaming. The event, organized by German Cooperation (GIZ) through its “DeZon” program and the Decentralization and Good Governance Program, was held in collaboration with the Ministries of Territorial Administration and Social Action.
Strengthening Gender Equity in Public Policy
The workshop aimed to enhance the integration of gender equity and equality into public policies, programs, and budgets. This initiative aligns with a June 2008 decree that established GFPCs within each ministry to institutionalize gender-responsive governance. Participants engaged with modules covering fundamental gender concepts, the current state of GFPCs, their roles and partnerships, and the practical integration of gender perspectives into planning, programming, budgeting, and monitoring and evaluation.
One of the central themes emphasized during the discussions was that gender is not solely a women’s issue. Rather, it encompasses the full spectrum of social, economic, and political relationships between men and women. Key sectors such as education, health, and political participation were highlighted as critical areas where gendered approaches can lead to more equitable outcomes.
A Collaborative Approach to Institutional Change
Representatives from the sectoral ministries stressed the importance of equipping GFPC members with the knowledge and tools needed to implement gender equality measures effectively within their respective institutions. “It is an imperative duty to capitalize on past achievements and succeed together,” one official noted, underscoring the collective responsibility to drive progress.
For GIZ, the workshop served as a strategic intervention to strengthen both technical and institutional leadership among GFPCs. By fostering inter-ministerial collaboration, the initiative aims to build sustainable bridges that enable the practical application of gender-sensitive tools and methodologies on the ground.
What Is a Gender Focal Point Cell?
A Gender Focal Point Cell is a dedicated structure within a ministry tasked with integrating and promoting gender equality and equity across its programs and operations. Its core functions include developing action plans, conducting gender analyses of budgets and planning documents, raising awareness among staff, and monitoring gender-sensitive performance indicators. Through these efforts, GFPCs contribute to more inclusive, fair, and effective development outcomes.
Why This Matters Now
In a world increasingly attentive to social justice and inclusive governance, the work of GFPCs is more relevant than ever. Gender-responsive budgeting and policy-making are not just moral imperatives—they are strategic necessities. When public institutions account for the different needs and experiences of men and women, policies become more effective, communities more resilient, and economies more dynamic.
Could it be that the true measure of a nation’s development lies in its commitment to equity? Workshops like the one in Kpalimé suggest that Togo is taking meaningful steps toward answering that question in the affirmative.
Looking Ahead
The outcomes of this workshop are expected to resonate beyond the conference room. With strengthened capacities and renewed partnerships, GFPC members are better positioned to champion gender equality within their ministries and contribute to national development goals. The collaboration between GIZ and Togolese ministries illustrates how international partnerships can support local ownership and sustainable change.
As the participants return to their respective roles, the challenge remains: to translate dialogue into action, and action into impact. The journey toward gender equality is ongoing, but with continued commitment and coordination, meaningful progress is within reach.
Source: Le Temps