The Réseau des Femmes Leaders pour le Développement (RFLD) is proud to announce its funding for a 13-person delegation to participate in the upcoming 6th GIMAC (African Union) Strategic Engagement in Accra, Ghana from 12 – 15 July 2024. This prestigious event focuses on achieving gender equality and educational sustainability in Africa.
The delegation is led by our Own John GBENAGNON – RFLD Senior Officer in charge of partnership. The delegation is composed of government officials and CSOs.
John was One Young World Youth Ambassador in 2018. Before joining RFLD, john worked for 3 years in The Gambia as Communications Africa Director in the EU CSOs PANAF Project led by the International Commission of Jurists. He has also worked as West Africa Lead Consultant for Equality Now during 2 years in Nairobi, Kenya. He served for 3 years as Comms Consultant for GLOBI in Italy. Feminist in the blood, Mr John has worked with different African Union organs. He is FEMMET Member since 2011. Mr GBENAGNON has traveled to over 40 Countries in the World (Asia, Africa, Europe, Latin America).
The delegation is comprised of a powerful mix of voices, including:
- Five young women activists under 30: These passionate young leaders, funded by RFLD, bring a fresh perspective and energy to the conversation.
- Government officials: Their presence ensures a strong link between policy and action. Among them are:
- Franck Okpeicha: Mayor of Ifangni
- Iris Muriel: Head of the 7th District of Cotonou
- Gisèle Victoire Hounsounnou: Head of the Vakon District
- Maroufatou Falola: Second Deputy Mayor of Ifangni
- Michel Bohoumbo: Head of the Daagbé District
- CSO representatives: Their expertise strengthens the civil society voice for change. Among them are:
- Heuleche Tognonmegni: Youth Expert
- Jeannine Bossou: Gender Expert
- Gemma Todjinou Deguenon: Municipal Councilor at the Porto-Novo City Hall
RFLD, a leader in gender equality, will fund the participation of the young women activists. “We believe empowering young women is crucial,” said John Gbenagnon, RFLD’s Senior Officer for Partnerships. “This funding amplifies their voices and ensures they have a seat at the table.”
Benefits for Delegates
All delegates will benefit from:
- Full coverage of travel, accommodation, and daily expenses.
- Opportunity to represent their constituencies and contribute to discussions.
- Network with influential leaders and stakeholders.
“This funding is about investing in the next generation,” explained Gbenagnon. “We equip them with the knowledge, skills, and connections to drive change.”
RFLD received many applications from passionate young women. “We were overwhelmed by the caliber of applicants,” said Gbenagnon. “The chosen five have the potential to be powerful advocates for progress.”
The theme, “Educational Transformation for Gender Equity and Sustainability,” reflects the understanding that education is key to achieving gender equality. “By investing in education, we are not only advancing gender equality, but also building a more prosperous future,” Gbenagnon emphasized.
The RFLD-funded delegates will contribute to shaping the future of education for girls in Africa. They will gain valuable experience that will benefit them as future leaders.
RFLD’s funding for the delegation is a testament to its commitment to empowering the next generation of women leaders.By providing these young women with the opportunity to engage with the AU, RFLD is investing in the future of gender equality and educational transformation in Africa. Their participation, alongside government officials and CSO representatives, is crucial in shaping a more equitable and sustainable future for all.
