Advancing Africa’s Transformation Agenda: The Strategic Role of Women’s Leadership
Tuesday, April 14, 2026 | IMF Headquarters
Held during the IMF/World Bank Spring Meetings 2026, this high-level roundtable focused on the transformative role of women’s leadership in advancing Africa’s development agenda. The event was chaired by Mme Benita Diop, AWLN Co-Convener and moderated by Ms. Angelle Kwemo, Deputy Chief of Staff, U.S. Congress.
Among the distinguished speakers, one of the most compelling voices was Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Head of World Trade Organization. Her message was both timely and inspiring: although global trade is currently facing significant disruption, opportunities still exist for those prepared to act strategically. She posed a critical question to the audience: How can we scale up and identify opportunities when chaos surrounds us?
Her optimism was deeply energizing and contagious. As a peacebuilding practitioner and an African woman in the diaspora, her challenge resonated strongly with me. How can we help transform systems that have too often kept women behind? How can we create change when circumstances appear stacked against us?
Dr. Okonjo-Iweala called for action—particularly action that uplifts youth, empowers women, and positions them in spaces of power and influence. Drawing on examples from diverse sectors including science, politics, the arts, academia, finance, economics, critical minerals, agrifood, energy, pharmaceuticals, and entrepreneurship, she urged African women not to give up.
She also challenged women already in leadership positions to use their influence to shape decision-making and policy outcomes that move societies toward greater stability, peace, and prosperity. Her message was clear: there is significant room for African women—both on the continent and across the diaspora—to help transform Africa’s future.
Another important theme was digital trade and the growing digital economy. For women who sell products or provide services online, she encouraged greater participation and innovation. Rather than fearing the rise of artificial intelligence, she urged women to see AI as a tool that can expand opportunity, productivity, and inclusion.
The barriers facing African women remain real and substantial, but they are not insurmountable. African women’s leadership can no longer be overlooked. Now is the time to seize the moment. Even amid conflict and uncertainty, we must continue to empower one another, generate ideas, reduce fear and scarcity, mitigate conflict, and create pathways toward balance and prosperity in a rapidly changing world.
The African diaspora woman is ready—and committed—to lead.
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