Forum To Tackle Plight Of African Women At Addis Ababa Confab

African Women Conference (AWC) has expressed commitment to the advancement of women in Nigeria and the entire continent.

A press statement issued by the co-convener of AWC and founder of Helpline Foundation for the Needy in Abuja, Dr Jumai Ahmadu, announced a new venue for the 7th edition of the conference, scheduled to hold from October 25 to 27, 2023.

She said this year’s conference will be held in Addis Ababa, the Ethiopia capital with the theme: “Reviewing the Economic, Social and Political Inclusion of Women and Girls in Africa’s Development Agenda”.

Ahmadu stated that the change of venue from Mauritius to Ethiopia was as a result of a response from many of the participants and partners.

“In our relentless pursuit of excellence and engagement, and response to the feedback from many of our participants and partners, we have made a thoughtful decision to change the location of the conference from Mauritius to Ethiopia. This change in the host country is not just a change in geography, it is an upgrade to an experience,” she stated.

While giving justification for the choice of Ethiopia, she stated that Ethiopia is not only a hub of African unity, but the oldest independent country in Africa and the cradle of civilisation.

“Ethiopia is, more importantly, home to the African Union headquarters, thereby placing the AWC at the heart of African diplomacy and cooperation.

“As you all know, the AWC is designed to proffer Afrocentric policy options to the challenges that African women face, and part of our strategy is to engage the stakeholders who have the authority to consider and implement these policy options and ensure that our voices are heard.

“The positioning of the AWC 7th edition will further amplify our collective voices and influence on the subjects that matter most to women’s advancement in Africa,” she said.

The co-convener also noted that Ethiopia offers more favourable travel connections for diverse participants from across the world, adding that this would not only reduce travel time but would also open new opportunities for cultural and business exchange for delegates and counterparts in Ethiopia.

“Also, major stakeholders in Ethiopia have shown support and commitment to pushing the vision of the AWC and improving the participation experience of all members and delegates.

“The government of Ethiopia has demonstrated a strong commitment to gender equality and women’s empowerment, as about 41 percent of the parliamentary seats in Ethiopia are occupied by women. Hosting the AWC here aligns with our shared goals and strengthens our resolve to drive meaningful change.

“In our efforts to ensure a smooth and affordable travel experience, we are thrilled to announce a strategic partnership with Ethiopian Airlines. As the leading airline in Africa. Ethiopian Airlines shares our vision for a successful conference and has graciously offered special rates and tailored services for all conference delegates.

“This collaboration promises an unparalleled journey to the heart of Africa, thereby adding to the overall enriching experience of the event,” she affirmed.