Pan-African Women's Day, observed each year on July 31st commemorates the first Pan- African Women’s Conference held in Dar es Salaam in 1962. It was on this occasion that the Pan- African Women’s Organisation (PAWO) was formed to promote gender equality, women’s rights and empowerment with a view of ensuring that women’s contributions to Africa’s struggle for independence is fully recognised and integrated in the African narrative.

In collaboration with the Department for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities of the Republic of South Africa, AUDA-NEPAD organised an event on Gender Equality and Women's Empowerment in Africa to reflect on progress made, challenges and opportunities towards gender equity and women’s empowerment in Africa.

All speakers highlighted that Gender equality and women’s empowerment (GEWE) are a prerequisite for realising the aspirations, goals, and targets embodied in Agenda 2063. Representing the CEO, Dr Janet Byaruhanga indicated that the event seeks to provide a platform for sharing African good practices and experiences in addressing gender disparities and promoting women's empowerment. She further reminded guests that AUDA-NEPAD's initiatives, such as the NEPAD Spanish Fund and WYFEI, have made significant strides towards the mission of empowering women so that they can continue to be the driving force behind Africa's economic growth. 

"Our mission is to accelerate gender equality and women's empowerment remains steadfast", said Dr Janet

Speakers at the event included Mrs. Victoria Lehau Maloka, AUC Directorate of Women, Gender and Youth, Adv. Mikateko Joyce Maluleke, Director General, Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities- South Africa, Mrs. Sara Hamouda, Agenda 2063 and SDGs Expert, APRM. The commemoration created a space for collaboration and networking among key stakeholders, including government officials, civil society organizations, international partners, gender experts, women leaders and students.

The commemorative event served to honour the women that have defined and shaped the development agenda of the Continent.