Namibian Constitution, Maputo Protocol is part of the Namibian domestic laws. This therefore
means that the rights and freedoms provided in the Protocol are enforceable in Namibian judiciary
and quasi-judicial bodies.1
I will now proceed to mention a few countries that have taking measures to domesticate and/or
implement the Maputo Protocol.
Benin
Adopted a family code in 2004 which focuses on gender equality, prohibits polygamy, affords
children equal access to rights irrespective of their Status
Sexual harassment Act 2006
Law on the protection of persons living with HIV/AIDS 2006
Abolished death penalty in 2011
Free medical services to women giving birth by C Section since 2008
2012 Law to prevent and punish violence against women
BURKINA FASO
One of the three states to have reported to have reported under the Maputo Protocol
FGM is punished under the Criminal code and the law of the fight against excision. Awareness
raising campaigns involving government ,customary and religious authority to fight FGM
Criminal code punishes rape, battery, indecent assault
Law fixing quotas for Legislative and municipal elections April 2016 : 18.8% women in current
Parliament
Creation of women’s income generation activities fund and assistance fund for income-generating
activities for women farmers, a Special Assistance Window for Women Entrepreneur ship.
Free grants to health facilities for the benefit OVDs, Pregnant women and people living with
HIV/AIDS
Has established a national commission for the implementation of the commitments of Burkina Faso
for women since 2008 whose mandate includes: support the ratification of existing and up coming
legal instruments that enhance socio-economic, political and cultural advancement of women in
Burkina Faso
RWANDA
2015 Constitution enshrines the principle of gender equality and provides for minimum of 30%quota
for women in all decision making positions. Presently 64% in Parliament, 40% in Government, 50%
female Judges, 50%Female Provincial governors
2008 Law on the prevention and punishment of Gender Based violence
1
Namibia report page 48
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