Subtitle: “Africa Rising: Harnessing the Potential of Women and the Girl Child for Sustainable Development” Inspires Action and Opportunity
Abuja, Nigeria – April 3, 2025 – The Africa Women Summit, a leading platform dedicated to championing women’s empowerment across the continent, held a powerful and inspiring event yesterday at the prestigious Barcelona Hotel in Abuja. Themed “Africa Rising: Harnessing the Potential of Women and the Girl Child for Sustainable Development,” the summit gathered prominent thought leaders, experts, entrepreneurs, and change-makers to spotlight the transformative role of women and girls in Africa’s future.
Keynote Speakers Deliver Inspiring Messages of Change
The summit featured Prof. Ekundayo Ocholi and Prof. Adekemi Oluyege, who delivered compelling keynote addresses emphasizing the urgent need to invest in women’s education, leadership, and economic inclusion. Their insights underscored how empowering women is key to achieving sustainable development across Africa.
Goodwill Message from NCWS President
Princess Edna Azura, the National President of the National Council of Women Societies (NCWS), Nigeria, delivered a heartfelt goodwill message. She commended the summit for its consistent efforts to amplify women’s voices and reiterated NCWS’s commitment to supporting initiatives that foster gender equality and community transformation.
Empowerment Through Entrepreneurship and Mentorship
In a session that left the audience inspired, Obasi Chinonso Theresa spoke on the growing opportunities in snail farming, sharing her journey and success story. She generously offered five free training slots to women interested in starting a snail farming business—an initiative aimed at creating sustainable livelihoods and boosting women’s participation in agriculture.
Youth Inspiration from Miss Teen Universe Nigeria 2024
Sharon Soko, Miss Teen Universe Nigeria 2024, took the stage to encourage young girls to boldly follow their dreams. Her message of resilience and purpose resonated deeply with the younger attendees, reminding them that they too have a voice and the power to make an impact.
Financial Access for Women: Union Bank Speaks
A representative from Union Bank shared insights into their Alpha packages, specially designed to support women with access to loans and free mentorship. The presentation emphasized the bank’s ongoing commitment to female entrepreneurs and financial inclusion.
Menstrual Health and Mentorship for Girls
As part of the summit’s dedication to holistic development, 200 girls in attendance received free sanitary pads to support menstrual hygiene. In addition, the girls were paired with mentors across various fields, providing them with year-long guidance, support, and empowerment opportunities—an initiative aimed at nurturing future female leaders.
Remarks from the Founder: Kalada Belema Meshack-Hart
The visionary behind the Africa Women Summit, Kalada Belema Meshack-Hart, delivered a powerful speech reinforcing the summit’s mission to bridge gender gaps, foster collaboration, and create inclusive platforms where women and girls can thrive. He stressed that empowerment is a collective responsibility and that sustained change can only happen through intentional action.
A Platform for Lasting Impact
The event concluded with impactful networking, collaborations, and a renewed call for stakeholders to drive the change they wish to see. With its empowering lineup, mentorship opportunities, and life-changing initiatives, the Africa Women Summit continues to establish itself as a leading force for women’s leadership and development in Africa.
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