Story by Memory Chamisa
ZIMBABWE is set to host the 7th edition of the Inter-Generational Retreat of the African Women Leaders Network (AWLN) in Harare this weekend.
As the world commemorates the anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action (Beijing +30), the Inter-Generational Retreat of the African Women Leaders Network conference, which will run on September 6 and September 7, will cast the spotlight on African women’s leadership experiences, while providing a platform for networking.
“AWLN seeks to build on the outcomes of the first AWLN Intergenerational Leadership Retreat hosted in August 2019 in Nairobi, Kenya and the second retreat held virtually in December 2020. Through a social network, AWLN mentorship envisions fostering an exchange of intergenerational views, skills and knowledge amongst network members and beyond. As Zimbabwe, we welcome Africa to this prestigious conference that not only gives a platform for the young ones to learn, connect and be mentored, but also gives elders a chance to learn the new dynamics of the world from the young ones,” the Minister of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development, Senator Monica Mutsvangwa said.
ALWN organisers and development partners articulated the concept of inter-generational dialogue in ensuring women reach their full potential.
“I am excited to be in Zimbabwe and believe this conference will bring women together and help the young women to get meaningful mentorship and support. It is crucial to seize the opportunity this network offers to unite our efforts and collaborate, whether in the political, entrepreneurial, or social sphere. Economic empowerment remains a key asset to sustain,” AWLN Executive Director, Ms Joyce Mends Cole noted.
“The network has the vital mission to have African women take their rightful place in Africa and the world. We are committed to holding our leaders accountable to the women and girls of Africa. We are not outsourcing our responsibility, we are part and parcel of the work that needs to be done,” UN Women Country Representative, Ms Fatou Aminata added.
The African Women Leaders Network is an organisation of accomplished women leaders in politics, business, academia and science, among many sectors, and innovative young female professionals, striving for leadership positions.
