The recently concluded Africa Women Summit 2024 in Nairobi, Kenya, marked groundbreaking achievements, including a notable blood drive that saw over 20 women participating. The three-day summit, themed “Women’s Health: Empowering Voices, Inspiring Change,” hosted impactful events aimed at advancing women’s health, empowering young girls, and fostering international cooperation.
Distinguished guests at the summit included Hon. Judith Mkwanda Ncuba, Zimbabwe’s Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution; H.E. Mama Magufuli, Former First Lady of Tanzania; Dr. Omer M. ElNagieb, Sudan’s Minister of Health; Hon. Dr. Evelyn Ndiov, Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Mat South, Zimbabwe; Her Excellency Mama Rachael Ruto, First Lady of Kenya; Hon. Ann Wang’ombe, PS Gender, Kenya; Susan Nakhumicha Wafula, Cabinet Secretary for Health, Kenya; and Hon. Dr. Dorothy Gwanjima, Minister of Community Development, Gender, Women, and Special Groups, representing the President of Tanzania.
Other notable attendees included Dr. Isata Mahoi, Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Sierra Leone; Senator Monica Mutsvangwa, Minister of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development, Zimbabwe; and H.E. Pastor Dr. Dorcas Rigathi, Wife of the Deputy President of Kenya, among others.
In a keynote speech delivered by First Lady of Kenya, Rachael Ruto, represented by Hon. Susan Nakhumicha, the importance of collaboration and empowerment was emphasised. “As African women, we stand at a point of destiny, defining the future of our continent with passion and commitment,” she stated.
Former First Lady of Tanzania, Mama Janeth Magufuli, also addressed the summit, highlighting the need to prioritise women’s health, economic participation, and societal roles. “The purpose of this meeting is to share the importance of the position of women in society, as stated in the main theme of the summit, which urges us to find ways and prioritise all the important aspects of a woman’s daily needs,” she remarked.
A remarkable blood drive was one of the summit’s key activities, with over 20 women donating blood over two days. On the third day, the focus shifted to the Girl Child Summit, attended by over 200 girls from Kenya under the theme “Girl, Your Dreams Are Valid.”
This event provided a platform for inspiration and mentorship, with girls grouped with mentors who will guide and support them in their chosen fields over the next year. Organisers stated that this initiative aims to nurture young talent and empower girls to realise their full potential.
One of the major highlights of the summit was the Nairobi Declaration, where ministers from various African countries affirmed the urgent need to improve access to healthcare for women in rural communities. The declaration sets a bold target of increasing healthcare access from 45% to 70% within the next ten years. Additionally, ministers pledged to collaborate on strategies and policies to address the underlying barriers preventing women from accessing essential healthcare services.
Meanwhile, plans are already underway for the next edition of the Africa Women Summit. Discussions are ongoing regarding the location, with Zanzibar being proposed at the behest of the Tanzanian President, or Egypt as an alternative option. The summit concluded on a high note, with tangible outcomes and commitments towards advancing women’s health, empowering girls, and fostering collaboration among African nations.
“As the summit continues to evolve, its mission to create a more equitable and empowered Africa remains steadfast,” said Kalada Belema Meshack-Hart, Founder of the Africa Women Summit.
