Dispatches from the movement.

The Advocacy Nexus workshop, organized by the Réseau des Femmes Leaders pour le Développement (RFLD), is scheduled for July 21-23, 2026, in Grand-Popo, Benin. It aims to empower thirty Francophone women human rights defenders from nine West African countries through intensive training in digital advocacy, security, and networking. The initiative, funded by BMZ and GIZ, targets increasing resilience amidst shrinking civic spaces and rising threats to women’s voices. Participants will receive full financial support and engage in focused sessions on various themes, fostering collaborative coalitions to address digital and physical security challenges faced by activists in the region.

The Praia 2026 initiative embraces an afrofeminist principle: those closest to the issues make decisions. The event features ten African afrofeminists, who will select 50 organizations based on diverse themes such as human rights advocacy, economic sovereignty, and democratic governance. Cabo Verde, a rare democratic beacon in West Africa, provides a safe haven for activists from volatile regions. With 87% of African feminist funding concentrated in English-speaking areas, bilingual representation is crucial. Given the increase in violations against West African female activists, the urgency of support is emphasized. Applications are due by June 20, 2026.

The Réseau des Femmes Leaders pour le Développement (RFLD) has announced its first Pan-African Afrofeminist Gathering from August 17 to 21, 2026, in Praia, Cape Verde, aimed at empowering francophone feminist organizations marginalized in favor of Anglophone counterparts. The event will involve 50 fully funded delegates from ten West African countries. This gathering aligns with a rich history of women’s resistance in West Africa, tracing back to significant figures since the 18th century. Applications open on May 24, 2026, and close on June 20, 2026, with selections made by an independent committee. For more details, visit the RFLD website.

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