Celebrating Africa Day
Today, on Africa Day, we at the Women Leaders Network for Development (RFLD) join the continent in celebrating its rich history, vibrant cultures, and enduring spirit. We also recognize the ongoing struggle for gender equality and social inclusion across Sub-Saharan Africa.
RFLD’s Mission: Empowering Women and Youth
RFLD, founded in 2013, is a regional women-led organization working tirelessly to ensure the rights of women and girls are protected, their voices heard, and their active participation in shaping decisions that impact their lives. We envision a future where women and youth are recognized as equal partners in development, leading the way towards a more peaceful, prosperous, and equitable Sub-Saharan Africa.
Our Approach to Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI)
We believe achieving lasting progress on GESI requires addressing both the underlying structural barriers and the individual challenges faced by women and girls. RFLD works to:
- Build strong alliances within communities to promote greater tolerance and inclusion.
- Foster a collective desire for change by addressing the interconnected aspects of gender, ethnicity, religion, disability, and sexual orientation.
Our Areas of Expertise
RFLD’s expertise encompasses a wide range of issues critical to women’s empowerment, including:
- Economic Justice
- Ending Harmful Practices
- Climate Justice
- Human Rights
- Peace and Security
- Media Development and Freedom
- Integration of Gender and Social Inclusion
Unique Contributions
RFLD stands out through its dedication to:
- Civil society building and civic space advocacy
- Safety and protection of women/human rights defenders
- Empowering diverse voices
- Inter-state and regional collaboration
- Tech, innovation, and digital activism advancements
Our Strategies for Change
We empower civil society and media actors through six interconnected pathways:
- Building Capabilities
- Fostering Collaboration
- Ensuring Safety and Protection
- Enhancing Sustainability
- Shifting Narratives
- Protecting Civic Freedoms
Together for a More Just and Equitable Africa
RFLD leverages the power of law and collaboration to create lasting change. We partner with various stakeholders, including women human rights defenders, civil society organizations, women’s rights organizations, and media professionals.
On this Africa Day, we celebrate the progress made and recommit ourselves to working alongside our partners to achieve a Sub-Saharan Africa where women and girls reach their full potential and contribute meaningfully to a brighter future for all.
