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A truly proud and defining moment for the entire AWLO global family. 

Congratulations to our founder and global President, Amb. Dr. Elisha Attai on this well-deserved recognition. This honour is not just a celebration of individual excellence, but a powerful reflection of the impact, vision, and commitment to humanity that AWLO stands for across the globe.

We celebrate your inspiring leadership, your unwavering dedication to empowering women, and the legacy you continue to build alongside your incredible partner of 28 years, an embodiment of strength, support, and purpose.

Our sincere appreciation to the African Heritage Awards and Heritage Times for recognising transformative leadership, and to H.E. John Mahama for hosting such a prestigious and impactful gathering.

Indeed, it was a convergence of excellence. Africa at its finest. 

The AWLO global community celebrates you. This win is for all of us. 

Doris Umunnakwe-Okolie 

AWLO Media and Communication Director.

International Women’s Dialogue held at the Serena Hotel, Nairobi, marking the official launch of AWLO Kenya.

The high-level gathering brought together women leaders and allies from across sectors to advance conversations on women’s leadership, economic empowerment, and inclusive development across Africa.

Vice-President of AWLO Kenya. Alice A. Odera, and The Founder and President of AWLO Amb. Dr. Elisha Attai, set the tone for the day by calling for bold leadership and deeper collaboration to unlock the full economic and leadership potential of African women.

Delivering a keynote address,Sally Mahihu, Chairperson Ken invest, spoke about leadership, wealth and legacy and the need to strategically take actions that not only develop leadership and wealth but also sustain it.

Chief Guest Speaker Hon. Millie Odhiambo Mabona, Member of the National Assembly of Kenya, spoke on “From Legislation to Liberation ; The Gender Equality Agenda in Kenya,” highlighting the need to bridge the gap between progressive laws and real outcomes for women.

Another keynote speaker, Betty Karimi Managing Director and Founder, Recolte Limited and Convener of the SHEconomy Summit, emphasized the importance of gender-smart investment, noting that investing in women is a strategic economic imperative for Africa’s growth.

The programme featured expert-led sessions on economic development, ethical financial systems, and women-led industries. Speakers included development economist Sheila Olang’ Owigo, trade and investment expert Dottie Oliech, Easter Okechi Executive Director of the Kenya Female Advisory Organisation (KEFEADO), and media leader Queenter Mbori, Executive Director of the Association of Media Women in Kenya. Discussions explored financial inclusion, cross-border trade opportunities, and the power of storytelling and media in shaping women’s leadership narratives.

Fireside conversations also featured Aulgah Nato, an award-winning fashion designer, and Vinita Ochieng, Founder of VOW Wellness, who shared insights on building purpose-driven businesses and industries led by African women.

A highlight of the event was the official launch of AWLO Kenya , signaling a new chapter in strengthening African women’s leadership networks and creating platforms that support women in governance, business, and social impact.

The Dialogue concluded with a networking session facilitated by Alice A. Odera, designed to foster collaboration and partnerships among participants committed to advancing women’s leadership across the continent.

AWLO PRESS RELEASE

March 2, 2026

AWLO Rivers State Chapter Relaunched in Grand Style

 Distinguished Senator Ipalibo Harry Banigo Decorated as Life Patroness

Port Harcourt, Rivers State

The African Women in Leadership Organisation (AWLO) Rivers State Chapter was officially relaunched on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at the prestigious Osborne La Palm Hotel, in a vibrant ceremony marked by leadership renewal, recognition of excellence, and a renewed commitment to advancing women’s leadership across the state.

The landmark event welcomed dignitaries, leaders, policymakers, and community stakeholders from across the region.

A major highlight of the ceremony was the decoration of Ipalibo Harry Banigo, Distinguished Senator and former Deputy Governor of Rivers State, as AWLO Life Patroness. This prestigious honor recognizes her decades of unwavering commitment, advocacy, and remarkable achievements in advancing the cause of women and community development.

In addition to her decoration, Senator Banigo was unveiled as the Face of the 2026 AWLO Magazine, which was officially launched during the event. 

The magazine celebrates impactful women leaders and chronicles inspiring stories of transformation and service across Africa.

The event was graced by the First Lady of Nigeria, Her Excellency Sen. Oluremi Tinubu; the Executive Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara; and the Wife of the Rivers State Governor, Her Excellency Lady Valerie Fubara  all ably represented by the Deputy Governor of Rivers State, Her Excellency Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu, whose presence underscored the state government’s continued support for women’s leadership and inclusive governance.

Further underscoring AWLO’s commitment to inclusive partnership and male allyship in advancing gender equity, four distinguished gentlemen were formally recognized and decorated as AWLO HeForShe Champions. They include:

•Sir Siminalayi Fubara;  Executive Governor of Rivers State 

•Chief Nabil Saleh

•Dr. Emmanuel Emefienim

•Ambassador Clinton Fubara Snr.

This special recognition celebrates their outstanding support for women’s leadership, advocacy for gender inclusion, and demonstrated commitment to policies and initiatives that empower women across professional, civic, and community spaces.

Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Elizabeth Ekole charged women to embrace visionary leadership, resilience, and collaboration as catalysts for sustainable development. Her address emphasized the importance of strengthening networks that empower women economically, socially, and politically by strategically nurturing their health and wellbeing.

The ceremony also witnessed the formal admission of new leaders into the AWLO community, reinforcing the organisation’s mission of nurturing transformative female leadership at local, national, and continental levels.

The Honourable President and Founder of AWLO, Amb. Dr. Elisha Attai, described the relaunch of the Rivers State Chapter as “a strategic step toward deepening our impact and building a stronger ecosystem for women leaders in Rivers State and beyond.” He reiterated AWLO’s commitment to capacity building, mentorship, and strategic partnerships that elevate women into positions of influence and impact.

In attendance were esteemed members of the AWLO Executive Council, including the Dean of the AWLO Executive Council, Mrs. Theodora Ajegwu, as well as the State Chairperson of AWLO Akwa Ibom Chapter, Madam Elizabeth Etebom, who lent solidarity and regional support to the relaunch.

The relaunch marks a new chapter for AWLO Rivers State, positioning the chapter to expand its programs, foster cross-sector collaboration, and champion initiatives that advance gender equity, leadership excellence, and community transformation.

As AWLO continues to build a formidable network of women leaders across Africa and the diaspora, the Rivers State relaunch stands as a testament to the organisation’s enduring vision: empowering women to lead with integrity, competence, and purpose.

COMMUNIQUÉ. G20 AWLO INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S CONFERENCE held in Hotel Sky Sandton, Johannesburg, South Africa. On Friday, 14 November 2025

Theme: “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability — Advancing Women’s Leadership for a New Global Order.”

The African Women in Leadership Organisation (AWLO), convened the 2025 International Women’s Conference in Johannesburg, South Africa, bringing together distinguished leaders, policymakers, academics, entrepreneurs, youth innovators, and gender-equality advocates from across Africa and the global community.

The conference held under the theme “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability: Advancing Women’s Leadership for a New Global Order” this served as a unifying platform to advance dialogue, collaboration, and action towards women’s empowerment and Africa’s sustainable transformation.

The conference commenced with an inspiring opening ceremony led by Programme Director Bongi Nxumalo, featuring the National Anthem, the AWLO Pledge delivered by Zanele Tsambo, and the HeForShe Pledge by Oscar Emetuei.

In her welcome address, Zanele Tsambo, AWLO South Africa Vice President, emphasized unity and shared responsibility in building inclusive leadership spaces.

Dr. Elisha Attai, AWLO Global President and Founder in his address reaffirmed AWLO’s commitment to amplifying women’s voices and strengthening cross-sector partnerships across the continent.

High-Level Panel Discussions

Panel 1: Women Shaping Africa’s Future Economic Development: This panel highlighted the roles of women in economic growth, diplomatic engagement, and governance.
The speakers stressed the urgency of scaling women-led enterprises, strengthening economic inclusion, and building institutional support across Africa.

*Panel 2: STEM Frontiers: Women Pioneering Science, Mining, Construction & Aviation

Panelists showcased groundbreaking achievements by women in traditionally male-dominated fields. Discussions emphasized STEM mentorship, policy-backed inclusion strategies, and the need to increase women’s visibility in industrial leadership.

Panel 3: Redefining Masculinity — Men as Catalysts for Women’s Development

Speakers underscored that gender equality requires male advocacy and societal mindset shifts. The panel session called for positive masculinity frameworks and community-driven engagement models.

Panel 4: Youth 4.0 — Innovation & Digital Transformation

Young innovators and entrepreneurs demonstrated the power of youth-led digital solutions. The panel highlighted skills development, access to digital infrastructure, and youth representation in policymaking.

Panel 5: Trade, Finance & Climate Resilience for Inclusive Growth

Financial systems, technology, agriculture, and aviation were examined to highlight how they can support resilient economies. Emphasis was placed on climate-smart solutions, sustainable financing models, and the integration of women into high-level economic decision-making.

🔗 Key Resolutions & Outcomes

Participants collectively agreed on the following:

1. Strengthen continental and global partnerships to accelerate women’s leadership in political, economic, and social spheres.
2. Increase investment in women-led businesses, STEM programs, and digital transformation initiatives.
3. Promote gender-inclusive policies, particularly in climate resilience, trade, and economic development.
4. Support youth leadership pipelines, ensuring young innovators have equitable access to resources and mentorship.
5. Advance the HeForShe movement, encouraging more men to champion gender equality and challenge harmful stereotypes.
6. Institutionalize AWLO programs that support intergenerational dialogue, leadership training, and community-driven impact.

AWLO extends profound appreciation to all the exceptional speakers who enriched the 2025 Conference with their expertise, insights, and leadership. We acknowledge ; Kimberley Malope, Refentse Shinners, Hasna Tizaoui, Viwe Tini, Dr Zanele Matsane, Innocent Khathi-Mathonsi, Captain Annabel Vundla, Oscar Emetuei, Nick Nzama, Zibuse Kunene, Zime Nxumalo, Alice Atieno Odera, Phiwokuhle Shabangu, Amonge Sinxoto, Themba Rikhotso, Thulani Nzimande-Dlamini, Dr Moffatt (Kang’iri) Ngugi, Thokozani Miya, and Tandokazi Nquma-Moyo.
Their contributions and conversations across the panels played a pivotal role in shaping the outcomes of the conference.

The event concluded with a Vote of Thanks delivered by Dr. Elisha Attai and Zanele Tsambo, acknowledging all delegates, speakers, and partners for their contributions to a transformative convening.

The Gala Dinner Reception, hosted by AWLO South Africa, provided a fitting celebration of African excellence, culture, and unity. Special appreciation to our Gala Keynote Speaker, Motlatjo B. Mohalwa, Head of Department, Gauteng Department of Economic Development.

In Conclusion the 2025 G20 AWLO International Women’s Conference reaffirmed Africa’s unwavering commitment to empowering women and shaping a more equitable global future. AWLO calls on all stakeholders to uphold the resolutions adopted and continue championing women’s leadership as a catalyst for sustainable development.

Empowering Words Dr. Elisha Attai, Founder of African Women in Leadership Organisation (AWLO), delivers a powerful speech at the International Youth Force Festival, urging African youth to take charge of their future and drive innovation. “Africa’s greatest wealth is not buried beneath our soil; it is walking on our streets.” “The baton is in your hand. The tide is turning. The time is now.” 

Read the full speech below and get inspired!

THE SPEECH:

Distinguished guests, 

Esteemed leaders, 

Fellow change-makers, and 

Vibrant African youth,

Good morning.

It is with great joy that I stand before you today to mark this year’s International Youth Day at the International Youth Force Festival. Our theme ‘Awake African Youth at the Helm: Driving Community Innovation, Transforming Africa’ is a declaration that Africa’s future is not tomorrow. 

It is here, and it is you.

Today, I speak to you not just as the founder of the African Women in Leadership Organisation, but as someone who has witnessed first-hand the power of young minds to challenge systems, disrupt the status quo, and build what has never existed before. I have seen communities revived and entire nations reimagined, all because young people dared to dream and took bold steps to act.

But let us be clear: dreaming is not enough. The future of Africa will not be transformed by wishes, hashtags, or slogans alone. It will be shaped by innovation rooted in purpose, one that solves the problems in our communities. This type of innovation is one that speaks to our realities and reflects the strength of our African identity.

As we gather here today, we must confront the truth: Africa’s greatest wealth is not buried beneath our soil; it is walking on our streets. It is the young woman in Ghana developing solar-powered irrigation systems for rural farmers. It is the young man in Kenya creating fin-tech solutions for unbanked communities. It is the university student in Nigeria who organizes clean energy hubs for markets. This is the force we must awaken and unleash.

The helm is before you. It is time to take it, not in arrogance, but in responsibility. Leadership is not about position alone; it is more about service. It is about stepping forward when others step back. It is about using your skills and influence to lift others as you rise.

At AWLO, we believe that inclusive leadership is the foundation for sustainable change. This means ensuring that women and men, rural and urban youth, the educated and those still learning, all have a place at the table. Innovation thrives in diversity. And Africa’s transformation will be incomplete until every young person is empowered to lead.

So, I challenge you today, don’t just talk about the change you want to see; become the architect of it. Ask yourself:

What problem in my community keeps me awake at night?

What skill, or resource can I leverage to solve it?

Who can I collaborate with to multiply my impact?

Africa is waiting, not for someone else, but for you. The baton is in your hand. The tide is turning. The time is now.

At this International Youth Force Festival, I urge you to take your rightful place at the helm, and steer our continent toward innovation and prosperity.

And when history looks back at this decade, let it be said that this was the moment Africa’s youth awakened, not to follow, but to lead.

Thank you, and may your vision be bold and your legacy enduring.

Dr. Elisha Attai, 

Founder, 

African Women in Leadership Organisation (AWLO)

Heartfelt Appreciation

We extend our deepest gratitude to our esteemed speakers: Mr. Atunyota Alibaba Akpobome, Remarkable Mary Akpan, Mrs. Kemi Leke-Bamtefa, and Dr. Mrs. Margaret Joseph Assian, for sharing their expertise and insights at the AWLO International Youth Force Festival held on August 13th at The Protea by Marriott, Ikeja, to mark International Youth Day.

The festival was themed ‘Awake African Youth at the Helm: Driving Community Innovation, Transforming Africa.’

We also acknowledge the generous support of our sponsors: South African Airways, Protea by Marriott, Ikeja, Access Bank, AWLO Abuja & Lagos Chapters, Aqua Volt water, and all individuals who contributed to the success of this event.

Congratulations to our Youth President, her team, and all council members for a job well done! Your dedication and leadership have made a lasting impact.

Thank you to everyone involved for making this festival unforgettable!

From elected officials representing the voices of Ghana’s national parliament, to advisors at AfCFTA, distinguished representatives from Private Family Offices of Sheikhs, development finance and venture capital practitioners, utilities engineers, multinational telecommunications executives, and central bank dignitaries — It was such exceptional company at The Grillroom, Fiesta Residences last night, April 28, 2025.

Appreciation to the distinguished speakers, Nana Sika Ahiabor, Manager within the Banking Supervision Department of Bank of Ghana, Angela Akosua Klufio (CFA) of RDF Ghana, Farouk Khailann, Senior Advisor to the UAE Royal Family and Founding Partner of StartBank Africa, Louis Yaw Afful, Group Executive Director of the AfCFTA Policy Network, and Antoinette Kwofie, Chief Financial Officer and Non-Executive Board Director of MTN Ghana’s Mobile Money (MoMo) platform.

Special appreciation to the Vice President of AWLO Ghana for a job well done, Sika Twum (ChRMP,CGP) and our Patroness, Oheneyere Gifty Anti

Thanks to the two fantastic moderators, our multiple award winner Natalie Fort, AWLO Ghana Media and Communications Director, Broadcast Journalist & TV Host together with Ebenezer Amankwah-Minkah, a Financial & Monetary Economics Researcher & Policy Analyst (EKAM Group).

Thank you very much for coming, Engr. Madina S. Adams, MIET-GH, MIEEE, MAMEG (Engineer, Electricity Company of Ghana & Vice Chair lady for the Women in Engineering Institution of Engineering and Technology- Ghana)

, Sheila Azuntaba-Addo (Deputy Managing Director, Consolidated Bank of Ghana) and Madam Madinatu Razak.

Congratulations to AWLO GHANA Chapter for such a POWER IMPACT gathering.

Empowering African women through financial literacy: knowledge is wealth! Financial freedom fuels independence.

AWLONIANS! let’s educate, empower, and uplift African women through financial literacy. – Dr. Elisha Attai.

This is a countdown to the August 23rd AWLO Pan African HeforShe Summit in ACCRA, Ghana… SAVE THE DATE & STAY TUNED.