South Africa is set to host a transformative gathering of 1,000 women, 16 from each of the 55 African countries, later this month in a unique five-day dialogue focused on advancing women’s contributions to the continental and global agenda.
“What sets this summit apart is its focus on inclusivity,” says Riah Phiyega, CEO of WDB Trust. “60% of the attendees are women from grassroots areas —women from urban and rural communities, many of whom have never travelled beyond their home countries. Their voices, perspectives, and experiences will be at the heart of the dialogue held, making it a truly transformative and representative forum”, Phiyega continues.
Also, business leaders, government leaders, civil society, public servants, entrepreneurs, activists, academics, students, and homemakers will attend.
Convened by the Women’s Development Business Trust (WDB Trust), founded in 1991, WDB Trust was created to empower women and rural communities. The African Women in Dialogue (AfWID) brings together a remarkable mix of women from all walks of life. AfWID is an inclusive platform of dialogue committed to strengthening the continental African women’s movement. The week-long (27-31 January 2025) AfWID forum creates a platform for women to reflect, connect, and share strategies to address the persistent challenges African women face. Emphasising collective power, solidarity, and sisterhood, the forum aims to elevate women from daily struggles and inspire meaningful change.
Two highly successful dialogues were hosted in 2018 and 2019. After a hiatus brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, AfWID is thrilled to resume with the 3rd instalment of this vital initiative.
“As the world confronts challenges like political shifts, climate change, conflict, deepening poverty and unemployment, and economic inequality, AfWID3 will harness the energy, innovation, and creativity of African women to shape solutions for a better future,” Phiyega explained.
The AfWID3 agenda includes thought-provoking keynote speeches, interactive workshops, networking sessions, and cultural showcases, culminating in a visionary declaration to be presented at continental and international forums.
Beyond Beijing 1995
Under the theme “Women’s Voice and Power as Agents of Change”, the AfWID3 gathering will amongst others commemorate the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and the Platform for Action, adopted unanimously by 189 countries. In addition, the forum will reflect on progress made and yet to be achieved.
“We aim to explore how collectively African women can contribute to the Beijing Declaration anniversary, ensuring a meaningful impact on this global forum. It is about leveraging the power of collective efforts as we work together to reimagine the future we want.,” Phiyega added.
The review of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action will take place at the 69th session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women from March 10 to 21, 2025 at the UN Headquarters in New York.
“We are rewriting the narrative of African women as passive participants in societal development. Together, we will showcase the transformative power of women’s leadership across every sphere of life,” Phiyega concluded.