When women come together

Aug 14, 2024

When women come together

While the contributions of women are always overshadowed by the achievements of our male counterparts, Africa has a long list of women who defied norms, broke barriers and made a significant impact on their communities. Their inspiring stories are a testament that the intelligence, resilience and determination of African women can transform our continent and the world at large. Indeed, women are integral to the fabric of all societies throughout the world. The contributions of women span diverse areas, shaping cultures, communities and economies.

There’s an undeniable magic that happens when women come together. This creates a circle of mutual support, where dreams ignite, and vulnerability becomes a source of power.

Catalysts for change in the face of adversity

Aspiring and existing women leaders face a wide range of unique challenges, including gendered cultural, political and social practices of the societies they come from. In addition, lack of appropriate training, insufficient or inappropriate media coverage, and violence have impeded the full realisation of the true potential of women.

 However, the resilience and constant push for change has always triumphed these challenges, making the contribution of women a vital element of any society. When women unite with a common purpose, our voice becomes a powerful catalyst for political and economic transformation. From advocating for gender equality, and women rights to driving environmental sustainability, the impact of women in society is undeniable. 

Despite all the hurdles African women have to overcome, woman leadership isn’t something new. African history is replete with powerful women who’ve gone against the odds to shape the course of African nations. 

From Ghana’s Yaa Asantewaa, who led an uprising against British colonial rule, to Angola’s Nzinga Mbande who led a fierce resistance against the Portuguese colonization, and Nigeria’s Idia, who was very influential in the Kingdom’s administration and military affairs, these African women demonstrated courage, exceptional leadership, and strategic thinking during extremely difficult times.

Modern-day icons

In modern African, women continue to impress the world by exceling in various fields, including business, politics, science and activism. Some notable African women leaders include:

·       Ellen Johnson Sirleaf: Liberia’s first female president, who was instrumental in post-war peace-building and reconstruction of the country.

·       Amina Mohammed: Nigerian diplomat who became the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations. She has been a driving force in global development agendas.

·       Wangari Maathai: Kenyan environmental activist and Nobel Peace Laureate. The late Professor Maathai founded the Green Belt Movement, empowering women and championing environmental protection.

·       Fatma Samoura: Senegalese former diplomat and senior executive. She became the first female Secretary-General of FIFA. Appointed to the post in 2016, Fatma brought a fresh perspective to the world of football after serving in various humanitarian roles.

·       Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala: Nigerian economist and the first-ever woman to lead the World Trade Organization.

These leaders broke the glass ceiling and demonstrated to the world that African women can lead at the highest levels despite the immense challenges they face. They are not only trailblazers, but also a great inspiration to aspiring, and current women leaders.

The road ahead

While a significant progress has been made in the education and empowerment of women, we still face various challenges, including limited opportunities, gender stereotypes and discrimination. However, when women come together, we can achieve more and invest more in the success and development of women. We can create an enabling environment that ensures women can participate and thrive in all spheres of life.

 By recognising remarkable achievements and celebrating each other, we inspire hope - and encourage future generations of women to lead and contribute to building a more equitable, just, and prosperous Africa for all. 

Summary

Throughout Africa’s history, women have been critical problem solvers, and dependable leaders during some of the worst political, economic, and health crises of the 21st century. There’s an undeniable magic that happens when women come together.