Credit Profile Picture : AWDF CEO Françoise MOUDOUTHE and RFLD President Dossi Gloria AGUEH
Some events are more than just gatherings; they are powerful affirmations of a collective spirit, etched into the very fabric of memory. The multi-regional “Leading From the South” (Sud Aux Rênes du Leadership) meeting, held in Cotonou, Benin, from July 1st to 3rd, 2025, was undeniably one such occasion. It was a profound reaffirmation of strength, solidarity, and an unyielding commitment to a more just and equitable world.
The atmosphere in Cotonou during those three days was charged with a palpable energy—a blend of fierce determination, warm camaraderie, and an unwavering sense of hope. It was a meeting of giants, with Mrs. Dossi Sekonnou AGUEH, President of the RFLD, standing and learning in powerful unity from Peers and Sheroes Sisters such as Mme Françoise Moudouthe, the dynamic CEO of the African Women’s Development Fund (AWDF).
Cotonou gathered a constellation of influential and powerful sisters, a testament to the depth and breadth of Afrofeminist leadership across the globe. Among them, the presence of Hakima Abbas resonated deeply. A veteran African feminist whose activism spans two decades, CoFounder of Black Feminist Fund, Hakima is a force to be reckoned with. Her insights, honed through years in social movements, brought a critical perspective to the table, grounding theoretical discussions in the lived realities of struggle.
The theme, “Resistance and Hope: Southern Feminists Confronting Turbulence,” was not merely a title; it was the very heartbeat of the gathering. In a world grappling with what has become widely known as a “polycrisis”—a confluence of environmental collapse, economic instability, political unrest, and persistent patriarchal violence—the voices from the Global South are not just essential; they are the bedrock of innovative solutions and resilient strategies. Southern feminists, who are often on the front lines, experience the compounded effects of these crises most acutely. Yet, it is precisely from this vantage point that unique forms of resistance and profound reservoirs of hope emerge.
What stood out most was the profound sense of mutual benevolence, collective power, and unwavering solidarity that permeated every discussion and initiatives. It was a tangible affirmation that collective strength is, indeed, the greatest asset. This was not a gathering of competing agendas or disparate voices; it was a symphony of shared purpose, where the nuanced experiences of feminists from various corners of the world harmonized into a powerful chorus. Partners from the four corners of the globe were present, not as external observers, but as active participants, enriching the reflections and embodying the spirit of collaboration that defined the encounter. Their willingness to listen, learn, and contribute was a clear indicator of the growing recognition that Southern feminist leadership is not just a regional phenomenon but a global imperative.
From the community and beneficiary partners, a clear, resounding message was heard: to respond to the polycrisis, there must be a return to community. This isn’t just about localized action; it’s about rebuilding social fabric, fostering mutual aid networks, and recognizing that collective well-being is intrinsically linked to the strength of communities. It’s about centering those most affected, amplifying their voices, and ensuring that solutions are co-created, not imposed. This emphasis on community as a primary response mechanism resonates deeply; truly transformative change often sprouts from the ground up, nurtured by the very people it seeks to serve.
Equally powerful was the call from the donor community and allies: a reminder to work together, safely, to achieve our shared goals. This wasn’t a call for mere financial aid, but for genuine partnership, for trust, and for an understanding of the risks and challenges faced by feminist activists on the ground. It was an acknowledgment that safety is not a given for many feminists, especially those working in politically fragile or repressive environments. This commitment to working together and safely signifies a maturing of the relationship between funders and feminist movements, moving towards a more equitable and supportive dynamic. It’s about recognizing the agency of Southern feminists and providing the resources and protection necessary for their vital work to continue unhindered.
The exchanges were truly inspiring, delving into critical aspects of the work. The discussions on navigating during times of turbulence were particularly insightful. These weren’t abstract theories but pragmatic strategies drawn from lived experiences of resilience in the face of adversity. We heard about innovative approaches to advocacy, about building movements that can withstand political shifts, and about finding strength in vulnerability. The stories shared were not just tales of hardship, but also of extraordinary courage, adaptability, and unwavering commitment to justice.
The focus then shifted to shaping inclusive feminist futures. This involved not just critiquing existing power structures but actively imagining and designing alternatives. It was about ensuring that our feminist visions are intersectional, embracing the diverse experiences of women and gender-diverse individuals across race, class, ability, sexuality, and geography. It was a robust conversation about moving beyond siloed struggles and building a more expansive, truly liberatory movement that leaves no one behind. The recognition that our futures must be inclusive is paramount; true liberation cannot be achieved if it does not encompass all.
Finally, the development of creative strategies for sustainability was a cornerstone of the meeting. In an ever-shifting landscape, the longevity of feminist movements depends on their ability to adapt and thrive. This included exploring diverse funding models beyond traditional grants, building local resource mobilization capacities, and fostering intergenerational leadership. It was a candid discussion about the challenges of securing long-term support for feminist work, but also about the immense creativity and resourcefulness of movements in the Global South. The emphasis on sustainability reflects a deep understanding that the struggle for justice is not a sprint, but a marathon, requiring enduring commitment and robust infrastructure.
Reflecting on those three days in Cotonou, a profound sense of renewed energy and purpose remains. The “Leading From the South” meeting was not just a successful event; it was a powerful testament to the enduring spirit of Afrofeminism. It showcased the immense intellectual and strategic prowess of Southern feminists, their unwavering commitment to justice, and their boundless capacity for hope in the face of profound challenges. It was a reminder that even in the most turbulent times, collective power, nurtured by mutual benevolence and unwavering solidarity, remains the most potent weapon. As the movement moves forward, the echoes of Cotonou will continue to inspire, reminding all that by leading from the South, a path is illuminated for a truly transformative and inclusive global feminist movement.
