The African Women in Dialogue (AFWID) is poised to host a transformative five-day conference aimed at amplifying the voices of women across the continent.
Scheduled for January 27 to 31, 2025, the event will take place in Johannesburg under the theme “Women’s Voice and Power as Agents of Change.”
This year’s summit is expected to attract around 1,000 participants, including government officials, entrepreneurs, students, public servants, and activists from all 55 African nations. The diverse assembly aims to foster dialogue and collaboration among women leaders and advocates.
Riah Phiyega, CEO of WDB Trust, emphasised the conference’s commitment to inclusivity, stating, “What sets this summit apart is its focus on inclusivity.”
In a statement released to journalists in Awka, Anambra State, Dr. Chinyere Julie Chukwudebelu, AFWID Coordinator for Nigeria and Regional Leader for Anglophone and Lusophone West Africa, echoed this sentiment, noting that 60% of the participants will come from marginalised backgrounds, many of whom have never had the opportunity to travel internationally.
“This dialogue aims to empower these women, restore their self-esteem, and ensure their voices are heard within a decidedly safe and supportive environment.
“The dialogue, organized by the Women’s Development Business Trust (WDB Trust) established in 1991 to empower women and rural communities, follows two successful previous sessions held in 2018 and 2019. The global outbreak of COVID-19 had temporarily stalled further progress, making this upcoming event particularly significant.
“AFWID’s forum will foster discussions on crucial issues affecting women, including gender equality, economic empowerment, and healthcare, while promoting collaboration and solidarity among African women. By creating a platform for building communities across diverse backgrounds, AFWID aspires to forge lasting partnerships and shared purposes to tackle the pressing challenges faced by women in the region.
“The 2025 conference will feature capacity-building initiatives through hands-on workshops and training sessions, equipping participants with essential skills to become effective leaders in their communities,” the AFWID Coordinator said.
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Dr. Chukwudebelu, also a member of the steering committee for AFWID 2025, stressed the importance of inter-generational dialogue, noting, “An inter-generational panel discussion will include voices from those born in 1995 and later, as well as women who attended the Beijing Conference in 1995. This is what AFWID stands for, bringing everyone together, regardless of age, education, or status.”
She added that in addition to discussions and workshops, this year’s program will commemorate the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Platform for Action, gearing up for the global convening at the UN Commission on the Status of Women.
“The AFWID 2025 agenda will also feature inspirational keynote speeches, interactive sessions, networking opportunities, and cultural showcases, culminating in a visionary declaration aimed at influencing continental and international forums.”
“This landmark dialogue promises not only to empower women but also to strengthen their collective capacity to drive positive change across Africa and beyond,” she concluded.
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