Advancing
GENDER EQUALITY
and Women’s Empowerment in Africa:
Perspectives from Partners of the Special Rapporteur on the Rights of
Women in Africa (SRRWA)
A NEWSLETTER
BY THE SRRWA
MAY
2025
Partner Organisations
Featuring in this Edition
2
NEWSLETTER OF THE SRRWA 2025
Table of Contents
FROM THE DESK OF THE SRRWA . ............................................................................................................... 6
25 Years of Advocacy in Advancing Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment in Africa.................. 8
Irene Desiree Mbengue and Meron Eshetu Birhanu............................................................................... 8
African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights ............................................................................ 8
Defining the Offence of Non-Consensual Dissemination of Intimate Images in Domestic
Legislation: A Victim-Protective Approach................................................................................................. 11
Lydia Chibwe and Sheryl Kunaka ...........................................................................................................11
Centre for Human Rights, University of Pretoria . .................................................................................11
Taking Stock of Recent Legal Reforms and Advocacy Towards Addressing Harmful Practices ............ 14
Divya Srinivasan, Equality Now . ........................................................................................................... 14
Achieving a Continental Milestone in the Fight Against VAWG .............................................................. 17
Ilwad Elmi Mohamed,Women Gender and Youth Directorate, Africa Union Commission ............... 17
Unheard No More: Amplifying Sudanese Women’s Stories of Courage and Resilience ....................... 19
Strategic Initiative for Women in the Horn of Africa (SIHA) . ............................................................... 19
Strengthening Women’s Rights to Land, Property, and Reproductive Resources in and out of
Marriage in Africa . ....................................................................................................................................... 21
Initiative for Gender Equality and Development in Africa ................................................................... 21
Supporting the Fight Against Gender-Based Violence by Strengthening Access to Justice in Mali.... 24
Bezahinibé Micheline Somda, Genevièv Robitaille .............................................................................. 24
Lawyers without borders Canada .......................................................................................................... 24
Amplifying African Women’s Voices and Advancing Gender Equality .................................................... 27
African Women’s Development and Communication Network ........................................................... 27
The Journey Continues: Sustaining the Momentum for Gender Equality and Women’s
Empowerment in Africa .............................................................................................................................. 30
Mosupatsila M Nare . .............................................................................................................................. 30
African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights .......................................................................... 30
NEWSLETTER OF THE SRRWA 2025
3
4
NEWSLETTER OF THE SRRWA 2025
Acknowledgment
The Office of the Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Women in Africa (SRRWA), on behalf of the African
Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (the Commission), extends its sincere gratitude to the
generous support of its partners in the collation and publication of this edition of the Newsletter. This
publication was made possible through the invaluable contributions of the German Federal Ministry for
Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) through the GIZ-African Union AWARE Project and the
Centre for Human Rights, University of Pretoria.
We also want to express our heartfelt thanks to all the partners whose contributions enriched this
edition. Their continued collaboration is vital in advancing women’s rights across the continent.
Dedication
This edition of the Newsletter is dedicated to all African women’s rights organizations that tirelessly
advocate for the rights of women and girls. Their commitment and dedication drive the progress we see
in advancing women’s rights across the continent.
We also dedicate this edition to the countless African women and girls whose resilience and strength
inspire us to continue working toward a future where their rights are fully recognized, protected, and
celebrated.
Editors
Meron Eshetu Birhanu
Irene Desiree Mbengue
Mosupatsila M Nare
Graphic Design
Flow Communications
NEWSLETTER OF THE SRRWA 2025
5
From
the
desk
of the
SRRWA
As the SRRWA of the Commission,
I address you with immense gratitude
and purpose in this latest edition of
the SRRWA Newsletter.
Hon. Vice-Chair Janet Ramatoulie
Sallah-Njie (SRRWA)
the first edition of the Newsletter
T
commemorated the 20th Anniversary
and long-standing violations that women
of the Protocol to the African Charter
continue to face. It serves as a vital platform
Reflecting on recent milestones,
on Human and Peoples’ Rights on the
equality and women’s empowerment
in Africa, highlighting emerging challenges
to assess progress in advancing gender
equality while commemorating the 25th
Rights of Women in Africa (Maputo
Anniversary of the Office of the SRRWA,
Protocol), while the second was
officially marked on 17 October 2024 under
dedicated to the survivors of Female
Genital Mutilation (FGM).
6
his edition explores the state of gender
NEWSLETTER OF THE SRRWA 2025
the theme “Intergenerational Legacy of
the Mandate of the SRRWA in Shaping the
Rights of African Women and Girls.”
In light of this milestone, this edition takes a unique
development partners, have remained steadfast
approach by exclusively featuring contributions
in championing gender equality and empowering
from partner organizations, focusing on various
women and girls across the continent.
aspects
of
women’s
rights
violations
that
undermine regional efforts to advance gender
As we move forward in our mission to eliminate
equality and women’s empowerment.
barriers
to
gender
equality
and
women’s
empowerment, I extend my sincere thanks to
As you explore this Newsletter, you will find it
the partners of the Office of the SRRWA for their
serves as a powerful platform to highlight efforts
continued support. I also call upon them to deepen
in advancing the rights of African women and
our collaboration and reaffirm their commitment
girls, celebrate shared achievements, amplify
to promoting and protecting women’s rights in
diverse voices and call for urgent action to protect
Africa.
and promote women’s rights.
Finally, I express my heartfelt appreciation to
This edition particularly highlights the invaluable
all our partners whose efforts are reflected in
contributions of our partners, who continue to
the stories and achievements captured in this
work tirelessly to promote the principles enshrined
Newsletter. I firmly believe this publication will
in the Maputo Protocol. Through this Newsletter,
serve as a source of information, a call to action,
we address critical issues such as harmful
and a beacon of hope for advancing gender
practices, gender-based violence, digital violence,
equality and women’s empowerment across the
women’s economic empowerment, access to
continent.
education, and intersectional inequalities, issues
that the Office of the SRRWA has long prioritized
I also wish to extend my gratitude to GIZ and the
in collaboration with our partners. Each initiative
Centre for Human Rights, University of Pretoria,
and every milestone showcased here is a
for their invaluable support in making the
testament to what can be achieved when we pool
development and publication of this Newsletter
our resources, expertise, and determination for a
possible.
common cause.
The progress we have achieved under the
Maputo Protocol would not have been possible
Hon.
Janet
Ramatoulie
Sallah-Njie
without the commitment and partnership of our
Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Women
esteemed stakeholders. Our partners, spanning
in Africa, African Commission on Human and
civil society organizations, regional networks, and
Peoples’ Rights
NEWSLETTER OF THE SRRWA 2025
7
25 Years of
Advocacy in
Advancing Gender
Equality and Women’s
Empowerment
in Africa
Irene Desiree Mbengue1 and Meron Eshetu Birhanu 2,
African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights
The year 2024 marked the 25th anniversary of the SRRWA.
The commemoration, held on 17 October 2024, was a significant
milestone in the African human rights landscape, marking a quarter
century of dedicated advocacy, policy influence, and legal reforms
aimed at protecting and promoting the rights of women and girls
across the continent.
E
8
stablished in 1998 as one of the Mechanisms
The commemoration served as a platform to
of the Commission, the SRRWA has played
celebrate past achievements, reflect on persisting
a crucial role in shaping the discourse on gender
challenges, and strategize for the future to ensure
equality,
to
that gender equality remains at the forefront of
women’s rights, and ensuring that the Maputo
Africa’s human rights agenda. The event’s theme,
Protocol remains a cornerstone of legal and policy
“Empowering Generations through Educating
frameworks across Africa.
Women and Girls,” underscored the transformative
influencing
state
commitments
1
Senior Legal Officer, African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
2
Legal Researcher, African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
NEWSLETTER OF THE SRRWA 2025
efforts, the Mechanism has
influenced national policies,
shaped regional human rights
standards,
and
contributed
to adopting progressive legal
instruments, such as General
Comments and Guidelines on
the Maputo Protocol. One of its
most significant contributions
has been its role in promoting
the
domestication
implementation
of
and
the
Protocol, which remains one of
Africa’s most comprehensive
power of education in dismantling systemic
legal instruments for women’s rights.
gender inequalities and empowering women to
speak out against violations. It highlighted that
However, despite these achievements, challenges
education is a fundamental human right and a
persist. As of 2025, Forty-five (45) African states
strategic tool for empowerment, enabling women
have ratified the Maputo Protocol, yet its full
and girls to challenge discriminatory norms,
implementation remains limited due to gaps in
access economic opportunities, and participate
legal reforms, weak enforcement mechanisms,
fully in decision-making processes.
and a lack of political will to address deeply
entrenched
gender
inequalities.
Additionally,
The theme aligned with the African Union’s 2024
limited resources constrain the Mechanism’s
Theme of the Year, “Educate and Skill Africa for
ability to fulfill its mandate effectively, highlighting
the 21st Century,” which called for increased
the urgent need to strengthen partnerships and
investment in girls’ education, vocational training,
secure sustainable funding.
and digital literacy to equip women and girls
with the knowledge and skills necessary to drive
A key highlight of the commemoration was the
Africa’s development. However, despite the critical
intergenerational dialogue, bringing together
role education plays in women’s empowerment,
former
millions of women and girls across Africa still face
policymakers, and civil society actors to reflect on
significant barriers, including poverty, gender-
the evolution of the Mechanism and discuss the
based violence, child marriage, and discriminatory
way forward. This engagement emphasized the
social norms that hinder their access to quality
importance of continuity in advocacy, mentorship,
education.
and knowledge sharing to sustain progress.
Over the past 25 years, the SRRWA has been a
Former Special Rapporteurs reflected on the
critical voice in advocating for state commitments
historical
to
promotional
highlighting how soft law instruments such
missions, studies, legal analyses, and advocacy
as Guidelines and General Comments have
gender
equality.
Through
and
current
significance
Special
of
the
Rapporteurs,
Mechanism,
NEWSLETTER OF THE SRRWA 2025
9
clarified
state
obligations
and influenced legal reforms.
Discussions also acknowledged
the ongoing struggles against
cultural and societal resistance
to gender equality, the slow
implementation of progressive
laws, and the need for stronger
monitoring and accountability
frameworks
to
track
state
compliance with human rights
commitments.
The commemoration reaffirmed that the future of the SRRWA depends on its ability to adapt to
emerging challenges while remaining steadfast in its mandate to advocate for women’s rights. It
was also highlighted that key priorities moving forward include addressing state reservations on the
Maputo Protocol, strengthening engagement with youth and grassroots organizations, and addressing
emerging women’s rights issues.
With the recent adoption of the African Union Convention on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls
(AUCVAWG), which designates the Commission as a primary institution responsible for interpreting
and monitoring its implementation, there is a significant addition to the women’s rights framework
and an expanded role for the SRRWA. As one of the
members of the Reference Group and the primary
mechanism within the Commission mandated to
oversee the promotion and protection of women’s
rights, the SRRWA will play a crucial role in ensuring
the effective implementation of the Convention.
The SRRWA’s leadership in this process will be
instrumental in facilitating the entry into force of
the AUCVAWG and its effective domestication and
implementation, ensuring alignment with regional
frameworks such as the Maputo Protocol and
strengthening protection mechanisms for women
and girls across Africa.
10
NEWSLETTER OF THE SRRWA 2025
Defining the Offence of
Non-Consensual Dissemination
of Intimate Images in
Domestic Legislation:
A Victim-Protective
Approach
Lydia Chibwe1 and Sheryl Kunaka2,
Centre for Human Rights, University of Pretoria
The non-consensual dissemination of intimate images (NCDII),
commonly known as “revenge porn,” involves sharing intimate
images without the consent of the individual presented in the
images.5
T
his form of digital abuse extends beyond
that aims to criminalize NCDII should adopt
relationship
encompassing
a definition of the offense that criminalizes
coercion, blackmail, and harassment. 90%
the perpetrator’s conduct and not that of the
of NCDII victims are women, and the rapid
victim. This victim-protective approach will
growth of digital platforms makes more
ensure perpetrator accountability and end
women vulnerable to public shaming and
legal and societal victim-blaming.
conflicts,
6
psychological harm.7 Societal and cultural
narratives around NCDII paint women as
Non-binding regional instruments developed
imperfect victims and shift the focus from the
by the Commission called on African States to
perpetrator to the victim. Thus, to adequately
protect the rights of women enshrined in the
protect victims of NCDII, this article proposes
Maputo Protocol by enacting and enforcing
that domestic legislation in the African States
laws that expand gender-based violence to
3
Project Officer and Postdoctoral Fellow, Centre for Human Rights, Faculty of Law, University of Pretoria.
4
Clooney Foundation for Justice Waging Justice for Women Fellow, Centre for Human Rights, Faculty of Law, University of Pretoria.
5
W S. Dekeseredy & M D. Schwartz ‘Thinking Sociologically About Image-Based Sexual Abuse: The Contribution of Male Peer Support
Theory’ (2016)2 Sexualization Media & Society 1-8. See also C McGlynn and E Rackley’Image-Based Sexual Abuse’ (2017) 37 Oxford
Journal of Legal Studies534–561.
6
Cyber Rights Organization ‘NCII: 90% of Victims of Are Women’ December 21, 2022, https://cyberights.org/ncii-90-of-victims-of-thedistribution-of-non-consensual-intimate-imagery-are-women/.
7
M Salter & T Crofts ‘Responding to revenge porn: challenges to online legal impunity’ (2015) New Views on Pornography: Sexuality,
Politics, and the Law233–56.
NEWSLETTER OF THE SRRWA 2025
11
include digital violence8 and laws
that
criminalize
these
calls,
NCDII.9
national
Despite
legislative
approaches to criminalising NCDII
remain inconsistent and fragmented.
This article seeks to highlight the
negative impact of failing to define
the offence of NCDII in a manner
that places the victim’s protection at
the centre of the criminalization of
NCDII. This is done by highlighting
discrepancies in legal definitions of
the offense of NCDII in a sample of
African Union (AU) Member States,
which either enable or otherwise
discourage victim-blaming and a
culture of impunity through the
criminal justice process.
Laws criminalizing NCDII must target
the act of disseminating intimate images without
in its legislative framework, making this an
consent by accurately labeling and defining the
instance of best practice in this regard.
offense. In this regard, legislation that defines the
12
offense in terms of the colloquial term of “revenge
The law should not be contingent on the
porn”11 enables the re-victimization of the victim.
motivations of the perpetrator. The law should
This term transfers the blame onto the victim,
be evident in the objective of punishing the mere
by implying that the victim has done something
act of disseminating intimate images without
12
that may have warranted an act of revenge.
consent. Some laws sampled proscribe conduct
Commendably, legislation in Zimbabwe adopts a
only if there was the intent to cause harm.13 Such
victim-protective approach by criminalizing the “[t]
a prerequisite is meaningless given that it is
ransmission of intimate images without consent.”
arguably impossible to engage in such conduct
There is no reference to the term “revenge porn”
and not cause harm to the survivor, whether
8
African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, ‘Resolution on the Protection of Women Against Digital Violence in Africa - ACHPR/Res. 522
(LXXII) 2022’(African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, August 9, 2024), https://achpr.au.int/en/adopted-resolutions/522-resolutionprotection-women-against-digital-violence-africa-achpr.
9
African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, ‘Declaration of Principles on Freedom of Expression and Access to Information in Africa 2019’
April 17, 2020, https://achpr.au.int/en/node/902.
10
This also means that the legislation must not be overly broad. See, for example, the broad provisions in Tanzania’s “Cybercrimes Act, 2015” (2015),
sec. 14, https://tanzlii.org/akn/tz/act/2015/14/eng@2015-05-22.
11
See Botswana’s ‘Cybercrime and Computer Related Crimes Act’ sec. 20, accessed February 18, 2025, https://botswanalaws.com/consolidatedstatutes/repealed-acts/cybercrime-and-computer-related-crimes-repealed.
12
Media Defence ‘Non-Consensual Sharing of Intimate Images’ Media Defence (blog), accessed February 18, 2025, https://www.mediadefence.org/
ereader/publications/online-violence-against-journalists/module-2-digital-attacks-and-online-gbv/ncii/.
13
Zimbabwe’s Cyber and Data Protection Act [Chapter 12:07] (No. 5 of 2021), sec. 164E. See also Government of the Republic of South Africa, ‘Films
and Publications Act 1996’ (1996), sec. 18F, https://www.saflii.org/za/legis/consol_act/fapa1996220/.
NEWSLETTER OF THE SRRWA 2025
psychological, emotional, reputational, financial, or other harm. In the same vein, provisions that
require a victim to prove that she was harmed should also be reconsidered.14 This is important for
fostering a culture that recognizes that the very act of NCDII is a violation of the rights of women and
that perpetrators should be held accountable. An instance of best practice in this regard can be found
in Kenya, where the law does not require intent to harm on the part of the perpetrator for liability.15
Finally, laws must seek to punish the perpetrator and not the survivor.16 This view is supported by
domestic case law in Kenya, which provides that a woman does not waive her right to the protection of
her privacy “by taking nude photographs”17 or by transmitting them to an intimate partner.18 Accordingly,
African states should ensure that their laws do not criminalize the taking of personal, intimate images
and the dissemination of such images to one’s partner. In this regard, domestic laws in South Africa,19
Botswana,20 Kenya,21 and Zimbabwe22 do not criminalize such conduct.
Addressing the scourge of NCDII in Africa requires laws that ensure
robust, consent-based protections that place the liability
of wrongdoing where it belongs: on the perpetrator. In
compliance with their regional obligations to address
all forms of violence against women, State Parties
should take an approach to criminalizing NCDII
that ensures that survivors are protected, not
prosecuted for being victims of NCDII. The
Commission is undertaking a continental study
on the underlying causes, manifestations,
and
impacts
of
digital
violence
against
women in Africa to inform the development of
comprehensive norms and standards to assist
States Parties in addressingthese violations.23 Such
a study can potentially support enacting domestic
legislation that is victim-protective to address NCDII.
14
Government of the Republic of South Africa, ‘Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act 32 of 2007’ (2007), sec. 11A,
https://www.gov.za/documents/criminal-law-sexual-offences-and-related-matters-amendment-act.
15
“The Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act 2018 | NC4” (2024), sec. 37, https://nc4.go.ke/the-computer-misuse-and-cybercrimes-act-2018/.
16
In Nigeria, the relevant legislation can be interpreted as criminalising all acts of dissemination, including the initial act of the victim sending
the picture to her partner. See “The Nigeria CyberCrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc) Act, 2015” (2015), sec. 24(1), https://ictpolicyafrica.org/fr/
document/h52z5b28pjr?page=146 Cyber Rights Organization ‘NCII: 90% of Victims of Are Women’ December 21, 2022, https://cyberights.org/ncii90-of-victims-of-the-distribution-of-non-consensual-intimate-imagery-are-women/
17
Petition 361 of 2016 - Kenya Law (The High Court of Kenya at Nairobi December 7, 2016).
18
Ibid, para 29.
19
Government of the Republic of South Africa, Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act 32 of 2007, sec. 11A.
20
Cybercrime and Computer Related Crimes Act, sec. 20.
21
“The Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act 2018 | NC4” (2024), sec. 37
22
Cyber and Data Protection Act [Chapter 12:07] (No. 5 of 2021), sec. 164E.
23
African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights ‘Resolution on the Need to Undertake a Study on Digital Violence against Women’s Rights
in Africa -ACHPR/Res.591 (LXXX) 2024’ February 17, 2025, https://achpr.au.int/en/adopted-resolutions/achprres591-lxxx-2024-resolution-needundertake-study-digital-violence-against.
NEWSLETTER OF THE SRRWA 2025
13
Taking Stock
of Recent Legal
Reforms and
Advocacy Towards
Addressing Harmful
Practices
Divya Srinivasan, Equality Now
Harmful Practices, including FGM and child marriage, remain critical
human rights issues affecting African women and girls today.
T
here are 144 million women and girls in Africa who are survivors of FGM, and over 130 million
women and girls who were married before they turned 18.24 In the last decade, there has been
significant progress in improving legal standards on FGM and child marriage. However, the recent antirights backlash, as demonstrated by the threat to the anti-FGM law in The Gambia in 2024, threatened
to stall and even reverse this progress.
Equality Now, through its Ending Harmful Practices program, has been working across Africa to support
efforts towards strengthening laws and policies on harmful practices, to advocate for their effective
implementation, and to improve access to justice for survivors. There has been recent progress in
amending laws on child marriage to comply with international and regional human rights obligations.
24
14
UNICEF ‘Towards Ending Harmful Practices in Africa’ https://data.unicef.org/resources/harmful-practices-in-africa/.
NEWSLETTER OF THE SRRWA 2025
For instance, in 2024, Sierra Leone passed the
Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, which puts in
place comprehensive measures that not only
set the minimum age of marriage at 18 without
exception, but also protect victims’ rights and
provide
support
services.
Following
Sierra
Leone’s victory, bills are currently pending to
amend and strengthen laws on child marriage in
several countries. For example, the Marriage Bill
2024 in Uganda seeks to harmonize laws on child
marriage.25 Despite the Constitution of Uganda
prescribing 18 as the minimum age of marriage for
both men and women, there remain contradictory
pieces
of
legislation
governing
customary
marriages as well as marriages of certain religious
communities (Hindus and Muslims), which still
allow marriage to take place below the age of 18.26
The passage of the Marriage Bill 2024 would give
of marriage or on introducing criminal penalties
but look towards embedding provisions for
prevention,
response,
community
education,
and protection of children already in marriage.
For example, the Malawi Law Commission has
recently begun a review of domestic laws on
child marriage to ensure full compliance with the
SADC Model Law on Eradicating Child Marriage
and Protecting Children Already in Marriage,
even
though
already
sets
Malawi’s
the
law
minimum
age of marriage at 18 without
exceptions.
While some progress is being
made, the advancement of legal
reforms toward ending FGM is
occurring at a disappointingly
slow rate. There are pending
bills to prohibit FGM in Sierra
effect to the judgment of the Ugandan High Court
Leone and Liberia. The Child Rights (Amendment)
in Michael Aboneka and Kirya Martins v. Attorney
Bill remains pending before Parliament in Sierra
General.27 which declared these provisions invalid.
Leone despite a push to pass it before the end
of 2024. Some lawmakers even called for the
These laws represent a trend towards introducing
removal of the anti-FGM provision in the Bill,
comprehensive laws on child marriage, which
prompting the African Committee of Experts on
do not focus just on raising the minimum age
the Rights and Welfare of the Child to issue an
25
The Marriage Bill, 2024, Parliament of Uganda. https://bills.parliament.ug/uploads/0839The_Marriage_Bill,_2024.pdf.
26
Marriage and Divorce of Mohammedans Act Cap 147; Hindu Marriage and Divorce Act Cap 145; Customary Marriage (Registration) Act,
Cap 248.
27
Constitutional Petition No. 35 of 2021; [2023] UGCC 112 (Judgment of 20 February 2023).
28
https://www.acerwc.africa/en/article/press-release/letter-urgent-appeal-government-sierra-leone.
29
https://frontpageafricaonline.com/gender-issues/liberia-nacahp-urges-swift-government-action-on-fgm-as-suspension-period-ends/#google_
vignette.
NEWSLETTER OF THE SRRWA 2025
15
urgent alert calling for the bill, including the ban on FGM, to be passed.28 In Liberia, though two bills to
address FGM were introduced in 2023, efforts have since stalled despite civil society coalitions calling
for the government to prioritize the passing of a comprehensive law on FGM.29
At the East African regional level, efforts are ongoing to revive the East African Community (EAC)
FGM Prohibition Bill 2016, which seeks to set a standard for the sub-region and address cross-border
FGM across EAC member countries. Equality Now is working in partnership with the East African SubRegional Support Initiative for the Advancement of Women (EASSI), with the support of UNFPA, in
bringing together CSOs across the region for a joint advocacy campaign towards the passage of the
EAC Prohibition of FGM Bill.
However, in some countries, progress towards legal reforms remains difficult. In Mali, though a
comprehensive amendment to the Penal Code was passed in 2024, the provision prohibiting FGM was
omitted from the bill at the last minute, stalling decades-long efforts of civil society in Mali, advocating
for a specific law against FGM. In the Gambia, though the National Assembly defeated the proposed
repeal of the anti-FGM law in June 2024, the law’s constitutionality was immediately challenged before
the Supreme Court, where the case remains pending and is expected to be heard in 2025.
With the recent adoption of the AUCEVAWG, as well as the AU Accountability Framework on Ending
Harmful Practices, there is significant momentum at the regional, sub-regional, and national levels to
take strides towards better legal protection for women and girls from harmful practices; we anticipate
that the sustained efforts will culminate in significant progress continent-wide in 2025.30
30
16
https://foroyaa.net/supreme-court-hears-case-challenging-criminalisation-of-female-circumcision/.
NEWSLETTER OF THE SRRWA 2025
Achieving a
Continental
Milestone in the
Fight Against VAWG
Ilwad Elmi Mohamed,31
Women Gender and Youth Directorate, Africa Union Commission
The recent adoption of the AUCEVAWG by Heads of State and
Government during the 38th Ordinary Session of the Assembly
of Heads of State and Government held in Addis Ababa, on
15 and 16 February 2025 marks a historic turning point in the
struggle to eliminate “all forms of violence and discrimination
against women and girls” across Africa.
T
his landmark legal instrument, which
emerged from years of dedicated
advocacy and consultative processes,
stands as Africa’s first comprehensive,
legally binding framework aimed squarely
at preventing and ending all forms of
violence against women and girls.
A Testament to Political Will
and Unity
The adoption of the Convention was unanimously welcomed as a bold affirmation of Africa’s
commitment to human dignity and gender equality. By endorsing this Convention, AU leaders
have reiterated their determination to address the deep-rooted drivers of violence and set an
inspiring example of political unity in the pursuit of justice.
31
Ag. Head of the Youth Division and Senior Policy Officer - Women’s Rights, AUC-WGYD.
NEWSLETTER OF THE SRRWA 2025
17
A Strong Step Toward Ending
Violence
Key Achievements and
Framework Highlights
The adoption of this historic Convention is a
The Convention provides a robust legal
powerful symbol of change. By uniting diverse
framework designed to:
countries under a single, binding commitment,
•
•
Prevent and Eliminate VAWG: It
the Convention sets a transformative agenda
mandates comprehensive measures
for the continent. It is expected to accelerate the
to tackle intimate partner violence,
implementation of national reforms, stimulate
sexual violence, harmful traditional
civil society engagement, and ensure that the
practices, and other manifestations
voices
of abuse that have long silenced and
The legal framework it establishes offers an
marginalized women and girls.
essential pathway toward not only reducing
Enhance Accountability: Establishing
clear
obligations
for
member
states paves the way for stronger
judicial and institutional responses,
ensuring that perpetrators are held
accountable while survivors receive
the justice and support they deserve.
of
affected
communities
are
heard.
the prevalence of violence but also ultimately
ending it.
As ratification efforts begin, stakeholders across
Africa,
such
organizations,
as
governments,
and
civil
international
society
partners,
are called upon to work collaboratively to
translate this commitment into tangible change.
•
Promote a Victim-Centered Approach:
The
The Convention emphasizes the need
accountability mechanisms will serve as a critical
for holistic support systems - ranging
from legal protection and healthcare
services to educational and economic
empowerment
initiatives,
thereby
prioritizing the rights and dignity of
victims and survivors.
•
rigorous
monitoring
and
tool in assessing progress and ensuring that no
woman or girl is left behind in the pursuit of a
violence-free society.
This historic achievement is a clarion call for
continued action and solidarity in the collective
Strengthen bilateral and multilateral
pursuit to end violence against women and girls
cooperation: It builds on existing
in Africa.
instruments like the Maputo Protocol
on Women’s Rights and aligns with
broader regional agendas such as
Agenda 2063, reinforcing Africa’s
determination to establish gender
responsive
interventions
continent.
18
Convention’s
NEWSLETTER OF THE SRRWA 2025
on
the
Unheard No More:
Amplifying Sudanese
Women’s Stories of Courage
and Resilience
Strategic Initiative for Women in the Horn of Africa (SIHA)
In a country ravaged by violence and civil unrest since 15 April 2023,
Sudanese women have faced disproportionate suffering, including
sexual violence, enforced disappearances, and other forms of genderbased violence.
A
mid these harsh realities, the Strategic
research reports,33 briefing papers,34 and petition
Initiative for Women in the Horn of Africa
letters,35 to shed light on the horrors and courage
(SIHA) has taken the lead as a fundamental
of those in the war.
women’s rights network, focusing on empowering
women, responding to crises, and amplifying
We recently launched the “Sudanese Women’s
their voices through resilient and urgent response
Stories: From War to Resistance” blog to further
mechanisms.
cement our advocacy and Sudanese women’s
demands for comprehensive justice.36
The
SIHA’s efforts have spanned from providing
platform is dedicated to sharing the powerful
immediate response to survivors of conflict-related
narratives of women who are not just surviving
sexual violence to empowering women human
the conflict but are key actors in the resistance
rights defenders and grassroots organizations
and rebuilding of their communities.
that are fighting tirelessly on the frontlines. SIHA
has also undertaken initiatives to document these
One such woman is Dr. Safa Ali, an obstetrician
abuses and advocate for international attention
and gynaecologist at Al-Saudi Maternity Hospital
and action by publishing press statements,
in North Darfur, who remained at her post despite
32
32
https://sihanet.org/news/
33
https://sihanet.org/publications/
34
Ibid
35
Ibid
36
https://sihanet.org/women-war-stories/
NEWSLETTER OF THE SRRWA 2025
19
celebrating these unsung heroes and telling the
story of a nation that rises from the hearts of its
fiercest survivors: its women.
We hope you find inspiration in the powerful
story of Siham Ishaq Hassan37 and her search for
her missing daughter, a journey that reflects the
struggles of countless women and families across
the country, alongside Zahra’s tale of survival and
courage in the face of conflict.38
SIHA Collaborations with SRRWA
In its efforts to promote and protect the rights of
women in conflict ridden countries, SIHANetwork
has closely collaborated with the SRRWA on
heavy shelling and ongoing conflict since April
numerous occasions. This includes the SRRWA
2023. She helped evacuate staff and pregnant
serving as a speaker at various convenings where
women to safety amid clashes between the army
she has consistently called on states to take
and RSF, as reported by the British Broadcasting
decisive action to uphold their commitments under
Company [BBC].
the Maputo Protocol, ensure accountability for
gender-based violence, and adopt comprehensive
Other notable Women Human Rights Defenders
legal and policy frameworks that protect and
(WHRDs) in Sudan’s current crisis include Gisma
empower women in conflict affected regions.
Hammad Kuku Kafi, a courageous activist from
One key highlight of our advocacy efforts and
Kassala, Sudan, widely recognized for her role
partnership was the virtual side event we organized
in supporting displaced families and fostering
during the 79th Session of the Commission. The
peace through dialogue and humanitarian aid at
panel, titled “What Justice Means to Sudanese
the grassroots level, and ‘Zee’ Omnia Al-Geniad
Women,” featured the SRRWA, who contributed
(@KushiteDictator), an online advocate who has
to the discussion and provided a platform for
mobilized global support for Sudan’s crisis by
Sudanese women to share their perspectives on
raising awareness through social media.
justice, as well as the crucial role of legal and social
recognition in their fight for rights and dignity.
These women’s contributions are often overlooked
20
in mainstream narratives, leaving the broader
Additionally, SIHA Network, in collaboration
story of the fight for justice and peace incomplete.
with its partners FEMNET and Equality Now, has
Consequently, the Sudanese Women’s Stories:
been actively advocating for family law reforms
From War to Resistance aims to change that, by
to promote gender equality and protect women’s
37
https://sihanet.org/where-is-roqia-the-story-of-siham-ishaq-hassan-a-mothers-search-for-her-missing-daughter-amidst-the-sudanese-conflict/
38
https://sihanet.org/from-crisis-to-action-story-of-zahra-a-sudanese-woman-at-the-forefront-of-humanitarian-support/
NEWSLETTER OF THE SRRWA 2025
rights. This advocacy was prominently
highlighted during the 81st Ordinary
Session of the Commission, where SIHA
organized a panel on family law reform.The
discussion emphasized the importance of
legal frameworks in improving women’s
access to education, addressing systemic
barriers,
and
promoting
inclusivity.
Commissioner Janet Ramatoulie SallahNjie underscored the need for family law
Strengthening
Women’s Rights
to Land, Property,
and Reproductive
Resources in and out
of Marriage in Africa
to align with the Maputo Protocol and
dismantle patriarchal structures.
Recent Research Studies
We invite you to explore two significant
research studies that offer critical insights
into the experiences of women in conflict
and their remarkable resilience.
Initiative for Gender Equality and
Development in Africa
I
n many parts of Africa, women have historically
faced significant challenges when it comes to
owning and controlling property. Gender inequalities
Our study, “Feminist Initiatives in Sudan
in land and property rights have long hindered
– A Story of Resilience, Resistance, and
women’s ability to fully participate in economic
Solidarity,”
documents
and
analyzes
feminist initiatives in Sudan. The research
activities and make independent decisions about their
lives and families.
highlights the crucial role these initiatives
play in advocating for gender-inclusive
Researches shows that in many African countries,
peace, providing humanitarian aid, and
women own less than 20% of the land they cultivate.39
driving long-term societal change.
Behind that statistic are real-life stories—like Ireti
from Nigeria, whose newly secured land title helped
Another research paper, “What We Have
her access microcredit and improve her children’s
Lost in the War: The Economic Impact of
education, and Adoma from Ghana, whose legal
the Sudan Conflict on Women,” examines
recognition of her land rights has boosted her family’s
the economic impact of looting on women
food security and dignity. Recent initiatives led by the
in Khartoum. The study documents the
Office of the SRRWA, in collaboration with various
economic hardships faced by women,
civil society organizations across Africa—including
their coping mechanisms, and gender
the Initiative for Gender Equality and Development
disparities in resource access.
in Africa (IGED-Africa) have contributed to significant
progress in women’s access to resources.
39
UN Women ‘Progress on the Sustainable Development Goals: The Gender
Snapshot 2021’ (2021) https://www.unwomen.org/en/digital-library/
publications/2021/09/progress-on-the-sustainable-development-goals-thegender-snapshot-2021
NEWSLETTER OF THE SRRWA 2025
21
Recognizing the challenges
African women face and
aiming to address them,
the Office of the SRRWA, in
collaboration with various
civil society organizations
across
Africa,
including
the Initiative for Gender
Equality and Development
in Africa (IGED-Africa) has
been
working
through
diverse approaches within
the mechanism’s mandate.
These
efforts
have
led
to the development and
adoption of key soft laws,
such as Resolutions and General Comments,
in addressing challenges related to women’s
promoting gender equality in land and property
property rights on the continent. The latter, in
rights. Building on these legal advancements,
particular, benefited from the critical contributions
strategic advocacy is driving meaningful change,
of
empowering women to claim and exercise their
reinforcing the commitment to advancing gender
rights.
equality in land and resource governance.
Notably, the adoption of the Resolution on
These legal instruments affirm the importance
Women’s Right to Land and Productive Resources
of women’s access to, ownership of, and control
(ACHPR/Res.262(LIV)2013) and more importantly,
over land and productive resources, as well as
General Comment No. 6 on Article 7(d) of the
the equitable distribution of property between
Maputo Protocol represent significant milestones
men and women upon divorce. They urge African
IGED-Africa
in
its
development,
further
governments to take concrete measures
to protect and promote these rights,
ensuring legal and policy frameworks
that advance gender equality in land
and resource governance.
The adoption of these Resolutions and
General Comments by the Commission
through the Office of the SRRWA
represents a significant step forward in
the journey towards gender equality in
Africa. By recognizing women’s rights
to land and productive resources, these
22
NEWSLETTER OF THE SRRWA 2025
legal instruments help dismantle discriminatory
practices and norms that have long marginalized
women and denied them equal access to property
ownership.
Through consultation and collaboration with
civil society groups, government agencies, and
international
organizations,
IGED-Africa
has
been instrumental in driving forward these soft
laws, legal reforms, and advocating for policies
that protect and enhance women’s property
rights. Moreover, the strategic advocacy efforts
of IGED-Africa and its partners have helped raise
awareness about the importance of women’s
property rights in and out of marriage, mobilizing
stakeholders to push for meaningful change.
Through engaging with policymakers, conducting
research, and organizing campaigns, IGED has
played a critical role in shaping the discourse
around women’s land rights and advancing
concrete policy reforms.
Although the adoption of these instruments
represent
important
victories
in
promoting
women’s property rights in Africa, it is essential
to emphasize that the work is far from over.
Governments
across
the
continent
must
reduction, improved household welfare, and
take concrete steps to implement these legal
increased economic productivity. Moreover, legal
instruments, particularly the recommendations
frameworks that uphold women’s property rights
stated in the General Comment, to ensure that
contribute to greater financial inclusion, enhanced
women, like men, have equal rights, access to,
food security, and stronger community resilience.
and control over land and productive resources in
and out of marriage.
Addressing the structural barriers that impede
women’s land ownership requires comprehensive
Secure land and property rights are not only
legal and policy reforms, coupled with effective
fundamental to women’s economic empowerment
enforcement mechanisms. It is imperative for
but also essential for achieving broader social and
governments, civil society, and policymakers to
economic development goals. Empirical research
take concrete measures to close the gender gap
has demonstrated that when women have equal
in land and resource governance, ensuring that
access to and control over land and productive
women’s rights are not only recognized in law but
resources, there is a direct correlation with poverty
also upheld in practice.
NEWSLETTER OF THE SRRWA 2025
23
Supporting the Fight
Against GenderBased Violence by
Strengthening Access
to Justice in Mali
Bezahinibé Micheline Somda, Genevièv Robitaille
Lawyers without borders Canada
For over a decade, Mali has faced a multisectoral crisis that exacerbates
inequalities and weakens people in vulnerable situations (PVS),
particularly women and girls.40
I
n this context, gender-based violence has
Bamako45 limit women’s access to justice. This
been steadily increasing.41 yet remains largely
reality deprives women of their fundamental right
unpunished.42
Numerous
obstacles
such
as
poverty, illiteracy, social stigma, and a judicial
to justice and sustains a climate of impunity that
fosters the persistence of GBV.46
system that is under-resourced,43 with only
24
one lawyer for every 67,500 inhabitants,44 and a
Lawyers Without Borders Canada (LWB Canada)47
strong concentration of legal professionals in
has been working in Mali for nearly a decade to
40
United Nations ‘Report of the International Commission of Inquiry for Mal’ June 19, 2020, p. 220, online: https://docs.un.org/en/S/2020/1332.
41
Commission nationale des droits de l’homme, Rapport annuel 2023 – Situation annuelle des droits de l’homme, p. 7, online: https://cndhmali.com/
wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Rapport_annuel-2023-2024.pdf
42
ASF Canada et FIDH, Note sur l’état des réponses judiciaires en matière de viol ences sexuelles liées aux conflits au Mali, September 2022, online:
https://www.fidh.org/IMG/pdf/220913_ndp_vslc_version_finale.docx.pdf
43
Commission nationale des droits de l’homme, Rapport annuel 2023 – Situation annuelle des droits de l’homme, p. 36, online: https://cndhmali.
com/wpcontent/uploads/2024/08/Rapport_annuel-2023-2024.pdf
44
ASF Canada ‘Analyse comparée portant sur “les difficultés liées à l’accès aux professions juridiques et judiciaires pour les jeunes juristes,
notamment les femmes au Mali’, Décembre 2023, en ligne: Analyse comparée portant sur les difficultés liées à l’accès aux professions juridiques
et judiciaires pour les jeunes juristes, notamment les femmes au Mali - Avocats sans frontières Canada.
45
SFC/JUPREC ‘Vers un Accès à la Justice au Mali? Avancées et défis’ janvier 2020, p. 14, online : acces- justice-mali-femmes-victimes-2020.pdf.
46
ASF Canada ‘L’affaire al Mahdi : et maintenant ? Les enjeux de la lutte contre l’impunité au Mali’ June 2016, online: https://asfcanada.ca/medias/laffaire-al-mahdi-et-maintenant-les-enjeux-de-la-lutte-contre-l-impunite-au-mali.
47
Lawyers Without Borders Canada, online: https://asfcanada.ca/en/.
NEWSLETTER OF THE SRRWA 2025
help strengthen access to justice. Its work is guided by
its theory of change,48 legal empowerment, a process
that enables PVS to develop a deeper knowledge of their
human rights and to master the mechanisms available
to protect and assert these rights.
This work is carried out through activities structured
around four complementary and synergistic pillars:
appropriation of human rights, legal aid and judicial
assistance (LAJA), strategic litigation, and advocacy.
Several approaches and principles, placing victims and
local civil society partners at the heart of the process,
guide LWB Canada’s interventions. These include the
human rights-based approach.49 the victim-centered
approach, the participatory approach,50 the intersectional
gender perspective,52 and the principle of subsidiarity.53
In this article, we briefly highlight some activities and results related to the appropriation of human rights
and LAJA.
1. Strengthening Awareness and Exercise through Human Rights
Appropriation
Effective access to justice begins with awareness of human rights and available remedies. In Mali,
PVS often lack knowledge of their human rights and the mechanisms available to enforce them.54 To
address this, LWB Canada organizes capacity-building activities targeting change agents, as well as
public awareness campaigns on human rights and available legal remedies.
In 2023–2024, 2,064 people, including 844 women, participated in gender equality awareness workshops
in Mali, enabling them to take ownership better of core principles for combatting GBV.55 Mobile human
rights education clinics also reached 17,619 people, 76% of whom were women, enabling them to
appropriate their human rights of and to claim them.56
48
The theory of change is defined as a set of hypotheses describing how and why an intervention will achieve its expected results.
49
This approach places individuals and their rights at the center of actions.
50
This approach ensures a holistic and respectful care of survivors.
51
This approach involves local communities and stakeholders at every stage of intervention.
52
This approach accounts for the multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination affecting women and girls.
53
The principle of subsidiarity ensures that all projects are developed and implemented in close collaboration with local partners. Rather than
directly defending human rights, LWB Canada prioritizes capacity building of local actors, drawing on their expertise and adapting interventions
to their expressed needs. See: LWB Canada, Our principles of action, online: https://asfcanada.ca/en/medias/our-principles-of-action/.
54
This observation also applies to LWB Canada’s other countries of intervention in Africa: Benin, Burkina Faso, the Democratic Republic of Congo,
and Senegal.
55
LWB Canada ‘Annual Report 2023-2024’ p. 21, online : https://asfcanada.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/ASF_Rapport_annuel_2023-24_AN_Web.
pdf.
56
As above.
NEWSLETTER OF THE SRRWA 2025
25
Given the low representation of women in legal
One compelling example is the case of Aminata,59
professions, only 11% of judges and 8.97% of
a 13-year-old girl forcibly married to a much older
lawyers in Mali,57 LWB Canada implements its
man in Mali. Thanks to the intervention of LWB
“Next Generation of Human Rights Defenders”
Canada and PROMODEF,60 her marriage was
program to train young jurists in human rights
annulled, and she received comprehensive and
and gender equality. A new generation of human
holistic support addressing her needs.61
rights defenders is emerging through trainings
delivered in Benin, Burkina Faso, and Mali,
In another case, a young woman, also forcibly
benefiting 71 young jurists, including 45 women.58
married and a victim of domestic violence, was
In addition, 15 young jurists, including 8 women
sentenced to 20 years in prison for killing her
trained by LWB Canada, were admitted to Mali’s
husband in Mali. LAJA support enabled the charges
magistracy entrance exam. However, to ensure a
to be reclassified as murder, and her sentence was
more inclusive, equitable, and gender-sensitive
reduced to 3 years. Upon her release, she was
justice system, increasing the presence of women
supported in her socio-economic reintegration
in the legal field remains essential.
and psychosocial recovery by LWB Canada and its
2. Supporting Survivors and
Strengthening Local Capacities
through Legal Aid and Judicial
Assistance
LAJA help PVS transform human rights violation
into a quest for truth, justice, and reparation. LWB
Canada works with Malian lawyers and legal
clinics to provide legal support and multisectoral,
needs-based judicial assistance to GBV survivors
(healthcare, prevention, protection, legal, medical
and
psychosocial
assistance,
socio-economic
partner APDF. To better meet the needs of gender
based violence survivors, a holistic approach to
legal and judicial support should be prioritized.
Despite these efforts, access to justice in Mali
remains limited by a lack of financial resources,
which prevents many victims from initiating legal
proceedings. LWB Canada therefore recommends
the establishment of a national fund to cover legal
costs for gender based violence survivors, thereby
ensuring all women have equitable access to
justice.
reintegration).
26
57
ASF Canada ‘Analyse comparée portant sur “les difficultés liées à l’accès aux professions juridiques et judiciaires pour les jeunes juristes,
notamment les femmes au Mali’ décembre 2023, en ligne: Analyse comparée portant sur les difficultés liées à l’accès aux professions juridiques
et judiciaires pour les jeunes juristes, notamment les femmes au Mali - Avocats sans frontières Canada.
58
LWB Canada ‘Annual Report 2023-2024’ p. 21, online : https://asfcanada.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/ASF_Rapport_annuel_2023-24_AN_Web.
pdf.
59
Fictitious name used for protection and confidentiality.
60
PROMODEF, online: https://ongpromodef.org.
61
ASF Canada ‘Une jeune fille échappe au mariage forcé au Mali’ May 7, 2024, online: https://asfcanada.ca/medias/une-jeune-fille-echappe-aumariage-force-au-mali.
NEWSLETTER OF THE SRRWA 2025
Amplifying African
Women’s Voices and
Advancing Gender
Equality
African Women’s Development and Communication Network
T
he economic landscape for women in
Moreover, the gender gap in access to formal
Africa is shaped by systemic inequalities
financial services remains a major hurdle, with
that hinder their full participation in society.
women often excluded from credit systems
Women, who constitute a significant portion
that are crucial for economic advancement.
of the agricultural workforce for instance, face
To
barriers to land ownership, access to financial
has advocated for policies that enhance
resources, and equal economic opportunities.
women’s access to land, credit, and markets,
According to the United Nations Economic
and support initiatives that build women’s
Commission for Africa (UNECA), women in
entrepreneurial skills. In this context, fostering
Sub-Saharan Africa hold only about 15% of
financial independence for women is seen
agricultural land titles, despite their dominant
as paramount for enabling them to exercise
role in farming and food production.
their agency and contribute meaningfully
address
these
disparities,
FEMENT
NEWSLETTER OF THE SRRWA 2025
27
to their communities. By supporting initiatives
inclusion in political, peacebuilding, and conflict
such as women’s cooperatives and building
resolution roles.
entrepreneurial skills, efforts are being made
to dismantle the gendered division of labor that
FEMNET champions women’s leadership at all
relegates women to the informal and low-paying
levels of society. It believes that women’s voices
sectors of the economy.
and perspectives are essential for shaping policies
and decisions that affect their lives. To this end, it
Alongside economic empowerment, women’s
provides training and mentorship programs that
political leadership remains a critical area for
equip women with the skills and confidence to
attention. According to the Inter-Parliamentary
assume leadership roles in their communities,
Union (IPU), the global average of women in
governments and civil society organizations.
national parliaments stands at approximately
It actively advocates for the implementation
26.5% as of 2023, but in Africa, many countries
of gender quotas and other affirmative action
continue to lag behind in terms of female
measures to ensure women’s equal representation
political participation. Countries like Rwanda
in decision making bodies
have made significant strides, achieving high
28
levels of female representation, yet this is not the
In recent years, FEMNET has taken a proactive
case across the continent. The ongoing struggle
approach to addressing the shrinking civic space
for gender parity in leadership highlights the
and the challenges of accessing global platforms
importance of increasing women’s participation in
for African women’s voices. Recognizing the
political processes. Advocacy for gender quotas,
increasing difficulties faced by African civil society
mentorship programs, and leadership training for
organizations in participating meaningfully in the
women are essential strategies for ensuring their
UN Commission on the Status of Women (CSW)
NEWSLETTER OF THE SRRWA 2025
in New York, FEMNET launched the Africa Disrupt
create significant barriers to access. Thirdly, the
CSW campaign in 2022.
campaign seeks to ensure that the voices of African
women are not marginalized or overshadowed by
This annual campaign, held prior to the global
other global actors.
CSW event, serves as a crucial platform for
consolidating the voices, demands, and stances of
This agenda, informed by the specific theme of
African girls and young women. The initiative aims
the upcoming CSW, is then presented as a unified
to address a critical gap: the need for a unified
African voice at the global forum. FEMNET ensures
African perspective that accurately reflects the
that the concerns and priorities of African women
realities and priorities of women on the continent.
are heard and considered in the international
policy-making process. The campaign has proven
The Africa Disrupt CSW campaign is born out of
to be a vital tool for amplifying the voices of
several key concerns. Firstly, the shrinking civil
African women and ensuring their meaningful
space at the CSW has made it increasingly difficult
participation in global discussions on gender
for African women’s organizations to participate
equality. It has also helped to strengthen regional
effectively. Secondly, the complex and often
solidarity and build the capacity of African women’s
prohibitive visa processes for travel to New York
organizations to advocate for their rights.
NEWSLETTER OF THE SRRWA 2025
29
The Journey
Continues:
Sustaining the Momentum for
Gender Equality and Women’s
Empowerment in Africa
Mosupatsila M Nare62
African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights
As we draw this Newsletter edition of “Advancing Gender Equality and
Women’s Empowerment in Africa” to a close, we are inspired by the
remarkable strides being made by our partners in advancing gender
equality and women’s empowerment across the African continent.
We take a moment to reflect on the diverse efforts underway to
empower women and girls.
W
e have explored inspiring stories, examined emerging challenges, and highlighted innovative
solutions that are making a tangible difference in the lives of women and girls. From grassroots
initiatives to policy and legal reforms, the dedication to creating a more equitable future for all African
women and girls is palpable.
The articles and insights within this Newsletter underscore the resilience, innovation, and unwavering
commitment of organizations and individuals dedicated to advancing gender equality and women’s
empowerment across Africa. This issue has illuminated the multifaceted nature of this crucial work,
revealing the interconnected challenges and opportunities facing women and girls. The contributions
herein offer a compelling testament to progress from the power of community-led initiatives and the
62
30
Gender Rights Expert, African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
NEWSLETTER OF THE SRRWA 2025
resilience of individual change agents to impactful
empowerment across Africa demands sustained
organizational advocacy and the significance of
and amplified efforts. The momentum we have
supportive policies.
collectively generated must be fueled by continued
collaboration, unwavering advocacy, and an
While
recognizing
progress
enduring belief in the transformative power of
highlighted, we acknowledge that the journey
gender equality and women’s empowerment. The
towards
women’s
insights shared in this Newsletter are not passive
empowerment in Africa is far from complete.
observations; they are potent calls to action.
This edition underscores persistent challenges,
From advocating for legal and policy changes
including cultural and societal resistance, the
to challenging stereotypes, amplifying women’s
slow implementation of progressive laws, gaps in
leadership,
legal reforms, weak enforcement, and insufficient
every contribution is essential to building a more
political will to dismantle deeply entrenched
equitable future for women and girls in Africa.
full
the
gender
significant
equality
and
and
supporting
local
initiatives,
gender inequalities. Furthermore, contributions
highlight the pervasive impact of poverty, limited
Building upon the lessons learned and the
access to resources, gender-based violence,
inspiration ignited by this edition, it is vital
conflict-related violence, child marriage, and
to continue amplifying the voices of African
discriminatory social norms that continue to
women and girls. The pursuit of gender equality
marginalize women and girls. A concerted effort
transcends human rights; it is the cornerstone of
involving more robust and targeted interventions
building more resilient, prosperous, and equitable
is essential to dismantle these systemic barriers
societies across the Continent. With renewed
and ensure the empowerment of women and girls.
commitment
and
unwavering
determination,
partners’ efforts will continue to play a vital
Looking
ahead,
the
progress
we
celebrate
in advancing gender equality and women’s
role in advancing gender equality and women’s
empowerment across Africa.
NEWSLETTER OF THE SRRWA 2025
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32
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33