By Oluwakemi Kindness
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has called for greater inclusion of women in leadership and decision-making across Africa, saying the continent cannot achieve its development goals while underutilizing half of its leadership potential.
The call formed the central message of the Women Leaders Networking Meeting held in Abuja on Tuesday.
The event brought together prominent women from government, diplomacy, business, academia, civil society and development institutions to discuss ways of advancing women’s leadership across Africa.
Convened by United Nations Development Programme Nigeria and co-hosted by the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the meeting honoured Ahunna Eziakonwa, a leading advocate for inclusive development and women’s empowerment.
Participants stressed that women’s leadership is not only a matter of fairness but also a critical requirement for stronger institutions, better governance and sustainable development.
According to the organisers, Africa’s future depends on creating systems and opportunities that allow more women to influence policies, drive innovation and contribute meaningfully to economic growth.
The meeting also highlighted ongoing discussions in Nigeria on increasing women’s participation in public leadership and decision-making.
Speakers noted that expanding women’s representation would strengthen governance and ensure that more diverse perspectives shape national development.
Discussions further focused on women’s role in economic transformation, with participants emphasising the need to improve access to markets, entrepreneurship support, investment opportunities and digital innovation.
The gathering also underscored the importance of mentoring and supporting the next generation of women leaders.
Participants called for stronger leadership development programmes, expanded professional networks and institutional support to help young women overcome barriers to leadership.
UNDP reaffirmed its commitment to supporting inclusive governance, women’s leadership and sustainable development through partnerships with governments, institutions and communities across Africa.
Organisers described the meeting as more than a networking event, saying it represents a collective effort to ensure women play a central role in shaping Africa’s future and driving the continent’s next phase of development.
