The african Forums in Communication (AFWID) has kicked off with remarkable momentum,bringing together over 1,000 participants from across the continent in Johannesburg. This four-day event, now in its fifth year, serves as a pivotal platform for African women to voice their struggles, share solutions, and advocate for inclusive advancement.
Ms.Phyega Phiyega, Head of a women’s business trust, expressed her enthusiasm for the conference, emphasizing its role in empowering women.”there is a beliefs behind this subject, specialist forces, women to take advantage of the voices. To more inclusive, equal and permanent development for all,” she said. Reflecting on her participation in the Divos’ Forum, she highlighted the need for a dedicated stage for African women. “It hit me: Why not a stage similar to African women? A place where they can explain the agenda itself without an external framework. Too often, African women can arrange for invitations with other people, whether Davos or the United African Nations.Although the platforms are valuable, they do not always brighten women’s challenges and experiences of this continent,” she explained.
Ms. Chinyee Chinkwu, a coordinator for women in africa, underscored the importance of the AFWID dialog.”AFWID dialogue is not just a conference which is a place where women can express the struggle, share the struggle and the solutions and time Frequently and inclusive future for all,” she said. The forum coincides with the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Action Program, adopted by 19 countries, providing a space to reflect on progress and persistent challenges.
Though, Ms.ChrkWudebelu voiced concerns about the pace of progress. “The truth is hard: We didn’t make enough done these questions and return to our countries to work on the changes we wont to see,” she asserted.
Ms. Thousand Wahu Kaara, a Kenyan adventurer, echoed the call for action. “We have gathered here to find solutions,” Kaara said. “We need to move a paradigm. As women, we are people who have solutions. It is through the conversation that will take action. The confidence is to ensure this to freedom in the areas of economic political and social structures,” she emphasized.The AFWID forum,running from January 27 to 31,2025,continues to serve as a critical stage for addressing ongoing challenges and fostering a collaborative future for African women.
| Key Highlights of AFWID 2025 |
|———————————-|
| Participants | Over 1,000 African women from 5th African Country |
| Duration | January 27 to 31, 2025 |
| Focus | Women’s empowerment, inclusive development, and solutions to African challenges |
| Significance | 30th anniversary of the Beijing action Program |
This gathering is not just a conference but a movement, rallying women to harness their collective strength and drive transformative change across the continent.
Empowering african Women: Insights from the African Forums in Dialog (AFWID) 2025
Table of Contents
The African Forums in Communication (AFWID) 2025 has emerged as a landmark event, bringing together over 1,000 African women in Johannesburg to discuss empowerment, inclusive progress, and solutions to continental challenges. In this exclusive interview, Dr. Amina Mbeki, a renowned expert on gender equality and women’s leadership, shares her insights on the significance of AFWID and its role in shaping Africa’s future.
The Significance of AFWID 2025
Editor: Dr. Mbeki, AFWID 2025 has been described as a pivotal platform for African women. Could you elaborate on its importance?
dr. Mbeki: Absolutely. AFWID is more than just a conference; it’s a movement. This year’s event marks the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Action Program,a historic milestone in global gender equality efforts. AFWID provides a dedicated space for African women to voice their unique struggles, share innovative solutions, and advocate for inclusive advancement. it’s a platform where women can lead the conversation without external frameworks, ensuring their experiences and challenges are front and center.
Empowerment Through Dialogue
Editor: How does AFWID foster empowerment among African women?
Dr. Mbeki: Empowerment begins with dialogue.AFWID creates an environment where women can openly discuss their challenges and collaborate on solutions. As Ms. Phyega Phiyega highlighted, this forum allows women to take advantage of their voices and push for more inclusive, equal, and sustainable development. By sharing stories and strategies, participants gain the confidence and tools to drive change in their communities and beyond.
Challenges and the Call for Action
Editor: Despite the progress, there are concerns about the pace of change. What are the key challenges?
Dr. Mbeki: One of the main challenges is translating dialogue into actionable outcomes. As Ms. ChrkWudebelu pointed out, many women return to their countries without seeing the changes they hoped for. This underscores the need for systemic shifts in economic, political, and social structures. AFWID serves as a catalyst for action,reminding us that solutions exist,but they require collective effort and sustained commitment.
A Collaborative future
Editor: How can AFWID contribute to a collaborative future for african women?
Dr. Mbeki: Collaboration is at the heart of AFWID. By bringing together over 1,000 women from across the continent, the forum fosters a sense of unity and shared purpose. As Ms. Chinyee Chinkwu noted, it’s a space where women can express their struggles, share solutions, and work towards an inclusive future. This collective strength is what will drive transformative change across Africa.
Key Takeaways
Editor: what are the main takeaways from AFWID 2025?
dr. Mbeki: The key takeaway is that African women are not just participants in the development process; they are leaders and problem-solvers. AFWID 2025 has shown that when women come together, they can address persistent challenges and create a more equitable future.It’s a reminder that empowerment and inclusion are not just goals but necessities for Africa’s progress.
Conclusion
AFWID 2025 has reaffirmed the critical role of African women in shaping the continent’s future.Through dialogue, collaboration, and action, this forum continues to empower women and drive inclusive development. As Dr. Mbeki emphasized, the journey towards equality is ongoing, but AFWID serves as a powerful reminder of the collective strength and potential of African women.
