Afrofeminist Initiative for Human Rights Development
(AIHRDFWA)
Implemented by the Women Leaders for Development Network (RFLD) and funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), with support from the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH.
Project Duration & Countries
30 Months (2025 - 2028) in Benin, Burkina Faso, Côte d'Ivoire, Guinea, Mali, Niger, Senegal, and Togo.
Project Locations
Francophone West Africa.
About the Initiative
The Afrofeminist Initiative for Human Rights Development in Francophone West Africa (AIHRDFWA), implemented by the Réseau des Femmes Leaders pour le Développement (RFLD), proposes an innovative, Francophone West Africa-wide initiative to counter shrinking civic space, strengthen civil society with a focus on women’s rights organizations, and promote inclusive policy development. Our program focuses on strengthening the feminist civil society in Francophone West Africa. Our goal is to enhance the capacity of Francophone West African civil society organizations at both local and regional levels and work towards promoting sustainable change by supporting Afro-feminist and intersectional movements.
Our approach relies on participatory methods to ensure that civil society actors set the agenda and lead discussions in both national and supranational forums, fostering positive and sustainable transformation for marginalized communities across the continent. AIHRDFWA, led by RFLD, represents a diverse force equipped with extensive expertise in civic space advocacy, media development, digital innovation, and the urgent protection of women human rights defenders (WHRDs). RFLD is committed to implementing a comprehensive, intersectional strategy that empowers civil society organizations (CSOs), journalists, and activists to operate safely and effectively across the region.
Key Objectives and Measures
- Advocacy for Inclusive Policy Changes
- Strengthening Digital Resilience and Security for Women Human Rights Defenders
- Expanding Cross-Border Networks for Solidarity
- Targeted Human Rights Programming
- Democratic Participation and Civic Education
The RFLD Force
Réseau des Femmes Leaders pour le Développement (RFLD) / The Women Leaders Network for Development is a Panafrican organisation based in West Africa working to promote and protect the rights of women, youth, and vulnerable groups and ensure their participation in decision-making spheres. RFLD fosters effective cooperation through awareness-raising, training, education programs, coalition-building, and advocacy using communication technologies.
A key contribution to AIHRDFWA is RFLD’s reach into Francophone Africa, as well as its strong partnerships with women’s civil society organizations, government stakeholders, and regional networks to influence policies and improve the enabling environment for women’s rights. Additionally, RFLD will drive young women’s digital engagement strategies, ensuring that AIHRDFWA’s initiatives remain inclusive and representative. RFLD plays a critical role in strengthening the work of W/HRDs by reducing their vulnerability to persecution through robust protection mechanisms and capacity-building initiatives.
Strategic and Specific Objectives
Strategic Objective O-0
Strengthened human rights institutions and mechanisms to promote civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights.
Short-term Outcome (ST-0)
Increased capacity of women human rights institutions to translate international commitments into national legislation, ensuring effective reporting, follow-up, and dialogue.
Long-term Impact (LT-0)
Robust human rights frameworks that protect and promote civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights for all individuals.
Specific Objective O-1
Enhanced advocacy and awareness-raising efforts for women human rights defenders and NGOs.
Short-term Outcome (ST-1)
Greater mobilization and visibility of women human rights advocacy, leading to inclusive policy changes that expand civic and digital space.
Long-term Outcome (LT-1)
A culture of accountability and respect for women human rights, supported by strong advocacy networks and informed citizenry.
Specific Objective O-2
Targeted sexual minorities and women human rights programming for vulnerable groups.
Short-term Outcome (ST-2)
Effective programming and support mechanisms.
Long-term Outcome (LT-2)
Inclusive societies where all individuals, regardless of background, enjoy equal protection under the law and access to resources.
Specific Objective O-3
Strengthened democratic participation and civil society engagement.
Short-term Outcome (ST-3)
Empowered citizens who actively engage in democracy through direct democracy instruments and civic education initiatives.
Long-term Outcome (LT-3)
A vibrant civil society that effectively holds governments accountable and ensures diverse representation and participation in democratic processes.
Our Impact and Success Stories
Our initiatives have already made a significant difference. Your support directly translates into tangible outcomes that empower communities and protect fundamental rights.
We believe in full transparency and accountability. All project outcomes are meticulously tracked and documented to ensure every contribution achieves its maximum potential.
Our Valued Partners
The success of our work is powered by the collaboration and support of our dedicated partners. We work closely with a wide range of international organizations, local CSOs, and community leaders. Our transparent and collaborative approach ensures that resources are leveraged effectively and that our initiatives are sustainable.
This project is proudly funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) with support from the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, a testament to our commitment to international standards and impactful collaboration. We are constantly seeking new partnerships to expand our reach and strengthen our mission.
How You Can Help
Your contribution can create lasting change. Whether through a donation or by partnering with us, you can help us continue our vital work in protecting and empowering women human rights defenders and civil society actors across Francophone West Africa.
Get in Touch
For all inquiries about the AIHRDFWA initiative, please contact us.
