Max Koffi’s Post

The future is Female

Empowering Women and Girls through Culture in Northern Uganda  This week, the Cross-Cultural Foundation of Uganda (CCFU) launched the 3rd phase of its "Culture for Her" initiative in Gulu and Kitgum districts. These inception meetings brought together district officials, cultural leaders, law enforcement, and civil society to champion gender equality through cultural frameworks. Key highlights: 1. Leaders emphasized the essential role of women and girls in Uganda's socioeconomic fabric and called for collective efforts to dismantle barriers to their advancement. 2. A focus on preserving cultural heritage while aligning with national gender equality goals was spotlighted. 3. Researchers are conducting a baseline survey to examine social norms around violence, reproductive health, and education retention in partnership with cultural leaders. Operating across six districts with support from UN Women, this initiative reflects the power of culturally sensitive approaches to gender equity. 👏 Grateful to all stakeholders, including the Ministry of Gender, Labour, and Social Development and the Council of Traditional Leaders of Africa (COTLA). Together, we’re driving sustainable change! 📢 Let’s celebrate and support this journey toward inclusive, equitable communities. #GenderEquality #CulturalHeritage #Empowerment #CCFU #NorthernUganda

At the age of 12 years I started my first business, selling sweets and biltong from a table outside my grandparents’ shop in Namibia. More than a decade later, I started The Strategic Economy to use my political and development background to help connect UK businesses with Africa. I was honoured to be invited by the United Nations Global Compact Network Nigeria and the Milken Institute to a CEO Roundtable on the side lines of the United Nations General Assembly. The theme of the roundtable: Galvanizing Africa to Move Forward Faster on the SDGs. Gender equality was one of the areas discussed and I highlighted the importance of looking at all aspects of your business to support your values. For me, that means I buy Kawah Coffee Ltd from Rwanda, a company owned by Michaelle Kubwimana. Kawah employs and empowers majority women in a market dominated by men. Over the next 25 years the population of Africa will double, and a quarter of the world’s population will be African. This presents a huge opportunity but also comes with its challenges. We must drive development, but not any development, sustainable development that sees all Africans benefit. #ForwardFasterAfrica #ForwardFaster #ForwardFaster2030

CÔTE D’IVOIRE GOVERNMENT SIGNS ECONOMIC COOPERATION AGREEMENT WITH WBAF - We are proud to announce the signing of a historic Economic Cooperation Agreement between the World Business Angels Investment Forum (WBAF) and the Ministry of Women, Family, and Children of Côte d’Ivoire. This Global Partnership for Financial Inclusion and Economic Development is designed to strengthen Côte d’Ivoire’s economy by advancing gender equality, enhancing educational opportunities, and fostering capacity building and mentorship for women entrepreneurs. Watch the Official Signing Ceremony at WBAF 2024 in Bahrain: https://lnkd.in/d4ZrfVWz Through this transformative collaboration, we aim to implement strategic programs that empower women and amplify their contributions to the entrepreneurial ecosystem. This initiative represents more than just an investment in women—it’s a pledge to build a more inclusive, resilient, and prosperous Côte d’Ivoire.

Halima Iqbal, founder of Oraan, met with Bill Gates during his visit to Pakistan to discuss financial inclusion for women. Gates, co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, also met with Pakistani leaders on healthcare and economic development. Oraan, founded in 2018, provides digital savings platforms to over 100,000 women in Pakistan. Iqbal highlighted Oraan’s impact and future plans to empower women economically. A financial services roundtable followed, focusing on strengthening women's income opportunities with key Pakistani stakeholders. Oraan’s participation in this high-profile dialogue signifies progress in democratizing financial services and promoting gender equality in Pakistan. #Oraan #BillGates #FinancialInclusion #WomenEmpowerment #Pakistan #EconomicDevelopment #DigitalSavings #GenderEquality #FinancialServices #TechNews #CxOnews #CxOGlobalForum

Had a fantastic conversation on AITnews/The Weekend Show with the incredible host, Andrew Agbo-Madaki, actress and women’s health advocate Ini Dima-Okojie and Sports Presenter, Jimmie Akinsola about the urgent need to empower women and girls in Nigeria. We discussed the importance of creating an environment where women can thrive, make their own choices, and contribute fully to our nation's progress. As Nigeria celebrates a pivotal moment with over 60% female representation at the Olympics, it's clear that investing in women is key to our nation's success. At Gatefield where women make up over 70% of our workforce and management, we’re committed to empowering women and positive change happen. My two takeaways: 1. We need to change the narratives about women and their place in society until we create new norms and entrench gender equality as a society. 2. We need more champions and allies (men and women) demanding and holding leaders accountable for women’s economic opportunities and demanding more seats at the table for women in decision-making. Grateful to WRTHY for making these conversations possible. Watch the full interview here - https://lnkd.in/dwVHHRGn #EmpowerHerGame💪🏾

Just imagine convincing men why they should participate in the fight against Gender-Based Violence (GBV). At The Conflict Lab, we’re taking that conversation a step further. This time, men are leading it. We believe GBV is not a women’s issue—it’s a societal ill that demands our collective attention and action. As part of the 16 Days of Activism Against GBV, we are hosting a conversation led by men on ending GBV. We’re thrilled to introduce our first speaker, Stevelee Mwichigi. Lee is a dynamic communications specialist and a passionate advocate for gender equality in agri-food systems. As the Women Empowerment & Advocacy Officer at AGRA, he plays a pivotal role in driving transformative narratives that empower women and youth across Africa. With his expertise in design and storytelling, Lee has championed initiatives like AGRA’s Generation Africa and VALUE4HER, promoting sustainable opportunities for women and youth. His dedication to inclusivity and equity is shaping a resilient and inclusive future for Africa’s agri-food systems. 📅 Date: 10/12/2024 🕒 Time: 5pm WAT 📍 Platform: Zoom 💡 Register here: https://lnkd.in/eai6BJMu This is not about inclusion; it’s about leadership. Men will guide this conversation, share their perspectives, and show how they can take the lead in challenging norms, fostering equity, and driving change. We are expecting a cross-section of male and female participants to join the discussion and add their voices to this crucial dialogue. Together, we can change the narrative and build a safer, more equitable world. #MenLeadingTheTalks #EndGBV #16DaysOfActivism Sonke Gender Justice UN Women FEMNET - African Women's Development and Communication Network Centre for Human Rights and Democracy in Africa Women's International League for Peace and Freedom - WILPF Reach Out Cameroon Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung | Global Unit for Feminism and Gender Democracy

Ethiopian women are significantly underrepresented in leadership positions within financial institutions. They make up 26% of the workforce in financial institutions, and only 5% hold decision-making roles. In private commercial banks, women's representation is (nearly) 30% in lower management and less than 10% in senior positions. Women hold ONLY 15% of board director roles in commercial banks. This disparity underscores a critical gap in gender equality at the top. The National Bank of Ethiopia targets 25% female representation in senior management by 2025. Currently, only three institutions meet this goal, with a sector average of just over 12.5%. Alarmingly, six institutions have no women in executive roles at all. Let's push for greater gender equality in leadership! It's time to close the gap and ensure more women hold senior positions in financial institutions. #EmpowerWomen #GenderEquality #Leadership #FinancialInclusion Source: Making Ethiopia's Financial Sector Work For Women: March 2024, World Bank’s Africa Gender Innovation Lab (GIL) and National Bank of Ethiopia (NBE)

Today, as we commemorate Pan African Women’s Day, we reflect on the courageous efforts of the Foremothers of Africa who fought valiantly for the liberation and development of our continent. This day holds special significance as we honor their legacy and recognize the ongoing contributions of diverse women, including transgender women, who continue to champion the cause of freedom and progress in Africa. Women in all their diversities across Africa and the Diaspora face unique challenges yet remain committed to building a better future for all. Their resilience, courage, and dedication ensure that gender equality and women’s rights remain integral to Africa’s emancipation agenda. These remarkable women stand on the shoulders of pioneers who mobilized to embed women’s rights into the very fabric of our society. In celebrating Pan African Women’s Day, we acknowledge the extraordinary efforts of women in all their diversities who tirelessly work towards the liberation and development of our continent. Their contributions often go unrecognized, yet they play a vital role in shaping the Africa we aspire to create. The progress we see today, with many women leaders emerging across various sectors, is possible because of the foundational work laid by these women of valor. Their legacy inspires us to continue striving for a more inclusive and equitable society where everyone, regardless of gender identity, can thrive. Let us take this day to honor and celebrate the relentless efforts of women in all their diversities across the continent and the Diaspora. Their perseverance and strength are invaluable to the ongoing quest for a liberated and developed Africa. You matter. You are valid. Your contributions are shaping the future of our continent. Association for Women's Rights in Development (AWID)Black Feminist FundILGA WorldGlobal Fund for WomenMama CashTGEUGATE - Global Action for Trans EqualityBill & Melinda Gates FoundationEquality FundUrgent Action Fund-Africa African Women's Development Fund (AWDF)UHAI EASHRIIrantiAkina Mama wa Afrika #PanAfricanWomensDay #TransWomenOfAfrica #WomenLeaders #GenderEquality #Solidarity #TYI_Uganda

Today marks a significant milestone: IRUKA Africa Foundation turns 6! What began as a passion-driven initiative has blossomed into a movement empowering communities across Africa, thanks to the dedication, heart, and resilience of our incredible team and volunteers. Over the past six years, we’ve challenged the status quo, bridged gaps, and brought hope to those who need it most. Our journey has been far from easy, but it has been fueled by the unwavering belief that Africa’s brilliance lies within its people, and that by coming together, we can create the change we want to see. From policy advocacy and educational advancement to gender equality and strong institutions, IRUKA’s vision has always been to empower the next generation of African leaders. To everyone who has been part of this incredible journey—thank you. Your commitment and belief in a better Africa have made all the difference. As we look to the future, we remain steadfast in our mission to address Africa’s socio-economic challenges and empower communities to thrive. Here’s to the next chapter of growth, impact, and progress! Let’s continue building the Africa we know is possible. Together, we can. #IRUKATurns6 #ForAfricansByAfricans #TogetherForChange #Leadership #SocialImpact #AfricaRising