The ALF Centre for Gender Equality and Research (ACGEQR) coordinates and advances all gender-related activities and interventions of the Africa Leadership Foundation. The Centre serves as a “centre of excellence” for the emancipation and integration of women into Africa’s Development. The ACGEQR’s main objectives are to;
– Promote and advocate the rights of African women through the effective development of programmatic interventions;
– Collaborate with inter-governmental organizations and development agencies for the economic, social and political empowerment of women in Africa;
– Conduct research on the outcome and impact of gender-related interventions in Africa.
Gender And Research Analytics
In other to provide strategically planned and executed research that takes into account women and gender issues which will in turn lead to more effective and sustainable development policies and programmes. ACGEQ continually conducts various research at both local and continent level on how to advance women’s rights in all sectors including but not limited to; health, leadership and political participation, and economic empowerment.
Current / Recent Project Activities
Research on Social Investment Priority of Africans in the Context of COVID-19 and Unpaid Care and Domestic Work (UCDW) (2021)
ALF in partnership with OXFAM Pan African Program (OI-PAP) conducted a study in Fifteen (15) African Countries to identify social investment priority areas that can form basis for future advocacy with the African Union Regional Economic Communities (AU RECs) and other stakeholders in terms of recognition and reduction of heavy Unpaid Care and Domestic Work (UCDW) within the African Economy.
Development And Creation Of The Maputo Protocol Scorecard And Index (MPSI)
The ALF working in collaboration with Plan International and the African Union Commission – Women, Gender and Youth Directorate (AUC-WGYD) developed a monitoring and evaluation tool for the Additional Protocol to the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights on the Rights of Women in Africa (Maputo Protocol) called the Maputo Protocol Scorecard and Index (MPSI).
The MPSI is a useful tool that enables Member States to measure their progress in the implementation of Gender Equality and Women Empowerment (GEWE) Agenda. It also provides advocacy opportunity and feedback channels that give room for improvement in the implementation of the Protocol.
The MPSI is a useful tool that enables Member States to measure their progress in the implementation of Gender Equality and Women Empowerment (GEWE) Agenda. It also provides advocacy opportunity and feedback channels that give room for improvement in the implementation of the Protocol.
Solemn Declaration of Gender Equality in Africa (SDGEA) Report
The ALF contributed immensely to the drafting and advocacy document on gender equality in Africa which culminated in the creation of the Solemn Declaration of Gender Equality in Africa (SDGEA) adopted by the Head of States and Government of the African Union in 2004. In 2014 the ALF developed the Solemn Declaration Index (SDI) Framework which is a tool used in measuring countries’ adherence and compliance to gender equality statutes among African countries. This framework is used in generating the SDGEA report.
ALF in partnership with the Gender is My Agenda Campaign (GIMAC) Network has consistently produced performance analysis report of AU member States in their implementation of SDGEA. This report usually covers MS 3 years SDGEA implementation activities.
ALF in partnership with the Gender is My Agenda Campaign (GIMAC) Network has consistently produced performance analysis report of AU member States in their implementation of SDGEA. This report usually covers MS 3 years SDGEA implementation activities.
ALF and the Empowering Women in Agriculture Project (2018-2019)
ALF in liaison with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development FMARD conducted a baseline study on Women in Agriculture in Nigeria. ALF was also called upon by EWA to complete a survey on the involvement of women in the agricultural value chain in Nigeria, in preparation for the EWA breakfast meeting scheduled for Saturday, February 9th, 2019, at the margins of the African Union Summit in Addis Ababa.
Study Tour of Public Health Facilities of Maternal Health Services Programme (2010)
ALF in collaboration with the Development Research and Projects Centre (DRPC), organised a study tour and knowledge sharing platform for 20 health administrators from 7 Northern States of Nigeria. The tour was to expose participants to best practice, effective models and policies as well as success stories of how states and some LGAs are able to implement sustainable maternal health programs which incorporate family planning servicesD
Past Project Activities
ALF and the Empowering Women in Agriculture Project (2018-2019)
ALF in liaison with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development FMARD conducted a baseline study on Women in Agriculture in Nigeria. ALF was also called upon by EWA to complete a survey on the involvement of women in the agricultural value chain in Nigeria, in preparation for the EWA breakfast meeting scheduled for Saturday, February 9th, 2019, at the margins of the African Union Summit in Addis Ababa.
Study Tour of Public Health Facilities of Maternal Health Services Programme (2010)
ALF in collaboration with the Development Research and Projects Centre (DRPC), organised a study tour and knowledge sharing platform for 20 health administrators from 7 Northern States of Nigeria. The tour was to expose participants to best practice, effective models and policies as well as success stories of how states and some LGAs are able to implement sustainable maternal health programs which incorporate family planning servicesD
Policy Dialogues And Advocacy
The center has been structured to organize periodic policy dialogues with stakeholders, experts, professionals, and policymakers at both local and continental levels for the purpose of policy review and reformation on gender issues at all levels using various approaches to identify gaps and provide recommendations for the promotion of gender equality and women’s rights.
Current / Recent Project Activities
Capacity Building on the Utilisation of Maputo Protocol Scorecard and Index (MPSI) Framework for Effective Reporting by the AU Member-States
Following the adoption of the Maputo Protocol Scorecard and Index (MPSI) by the African Union Assembly during the 40th Summit in 2022 and the resources provided by Plan International- African Union Liaison Office (PLAN-AULO) and the African Union Commission – Women, Gender and Youth Directorate (AUC-WGYD), the implementation of the MPSI commenced with a Capacity Building Programme (CBP).
The CBP was conducted for ten (10) AU- Member States (Republic of Cameroon, Republic of Ethiopia, Republic of Ghana, Republic of Kenya, Republic of Liberia, Republic of Namibia, Republic of Sierra Leone, Republic of South Africa, Republic of Uganda, Republic of Zimbabwe) and took place in Nairobi, Kenya between Monday June 13th and Friday June 17th, 2022.
The CBP was conducted for ten (10) AU- Member States (Republic of Cameroon, Republic of Ethiopia, Republic of Ghana, Republic of Kenya, Republic of Liberia, Republic of Namibia, Republic of Sierra Leone, Republic of South Africa, Republic of Uganda, Republic of Zimbabwe) and took place in Nairobi, Kenya between Monday June 13th and Friday June 17th, 2022.
Engagement with Pan-African Writers’ Association (PAWA) to promote UCDW Campaign in Africa
In January 2023, The ALF in collaboration with the Pan-African Writers Association (PAWA) under the leadership of Secretary-General Dr ‘Wale Okediran held an Advocacy Workshop on,” The role of writers and the media in advocating for the reduction of heavy Unpaid Care and Domestic Work (UCDW) on women in Africa”. The workshop drew Forty (40) participants ranging from Writers, Published Authors, Journalists, TV/Radio Broadcasters and Media Experts drawn from 11 Sub-Saharan African Countries. The key recommendations from the workshop are;
- The incorporation of UCDW into African Literature by Writers to promote the concept of UCDW in a simplified manner in different African dialects;
- That Media Houses and Writers Increase advocacy on Unpaid Care and Domestic Work (UCDW) through different approaches including but not limited to, documentaries, television soap operas, radio jingles, articles, talk shows, short stories, posters, leaflets, short plays/ movies(especially on new media platforms/internet) etc. sharing stories that enlighten people on UCDW, its negative impact on gender equality and women’s empowerment and how it is being addressed and;
- The Africa Leadership Foundation in collaboration with the Pan-African Writers Association (PAWA) and OXFAM Pan African Program (OI-PAP) should organise a Continental Writers Competition on the reduction of UCDW on women in Africa as part of the WE-CARE Phase V in collaboration with Africa Leadership Foundation and the Pan African Writers Association (PAWA).
- The incorporation of UCDW into African Literature by Writers to promote the concept of UCDW in a simplified manner in different African dialects;
- That Media Houses and Writers Increase advocacy on Unpaid Care and Domestic Work (UCDW) through different approaches including but not limited to, documentaries, television soap operas, radio jingles, articles, talk shows, short stories, posters, leaflets, short plays/ movies(especially on new media platforms/internet) etc. sharing stories that enlighten people on UCDW, its negative impact on gender equality and women’s empowerment and how it is being addressed and;
- The Africa Leadership Foundation in collaboration with the Pan-African Writers Association (PAWA) and OXFAM Pan African Program (OI-PAP) should organise a Continental Writers Competition on the reduction of UCDW on women in Africa as part of the WE-CARE Phase V in collaboration with Africa Leadership Foundation and the Pan African Writers Association (PAWA).
Regional Dialogues on Positive Masculinity and Unpaid Care and Domestic Work (UCDW)
In 2022, the ALF in partnership with OXFAM Pan-African Program (OI-PAP) organised two regional dialogues;
A. First Regional Dialogue with Youths And Youth-Led Organisations:
The first dialogue titled, “Youth, Positive Masculinity and Unpaid Care and Domestic Work (UCDW)” was held on Monday 19th September 2022 with Ninety (90) participants from 15 countries of the continent. The major recommendations drawn from the dialogue are;
- The need for the urgent inclusivity of African Youth in the popularization and advocacy of the 5R Frameworks (Recognition, Reduction, Redistribution, Representation and Reward) to address heavy Unpaid Care and Domestic Work (UCDW) in Africa;
- African Government should prioritize investment in social services such as the provision of clean water and sanitation, clean energy, vocational training, and public transport; and in social infrastructure, such as care services and health services, which will reduce the heavy burden of women involved in care and domestic work;
- An annual dialogue with Youths and Youth-Led Organisations to discuss current issues around the reduction of Heavy Unpaid Care and Domestic Work and elimination of Violence against Women and Girls (VAWG).
B. Second Regional Dialogue with Women and Women-Led Organisations:
The second regional dialogue was titled, “Women, Positive Masculinity and Unpaid Care and Domestic Work (UCDW)” held on Monday 10th October 2022 with Sixty-Two (62) participants drawn from Officials of the African Union – Women, Youth and Gender Directorate, Women’s Movement and Networks, CSOs, NGOs, CBOs, Development Partners, GEWE Experts, and other Stakeholders. The two major recommendations from the dialogue are;
- Member States should recognise unpaid care work at the national policy level and consider it as a central activity for well-being to be redistributed between men and women, as well as between the family and the State. States’ failures to provide, regulate and fund domestic and care formal services increase the burden for communities, families and especially women;
- Creation of initiatives by Member States to completely eradicate toxic masculinity which transcends national borders, age, generations, and ideas of race and ethnicity, and replace them with positive masculinity to promote a culture of human rights, to promote gender-equitable behaviours, to teach boys and men different methods of resolving conflict that does not resort to notions of masculinity, violence, and pride.
These recommendations were brought forward to the 2nd CSO’s Consultative Meeting on the Heads Of State Conference on Positive Masculinity. It was also presented at the Second African Union Heads of States Conference on Positive Masculinity themed “Advancing actions and promoting positive masculinity to end violence against women and girls” held on 10th November 2022, in Dakar, Senegal and; reflected in one of the five key areas on interventions presented by H.E President Macky Sall, President of the Republic of Senegal and the 2022 AU Chairperson. Click here to read the Conference Outcome Document
A. First Regional Dialogue with Youths And Youth-Led Organisations:
The first dialogue titled, “Youth, Positive Masculinity and Unpaid Care and Domestic Work (UCDW)” was held on Monday 19th September 2022 with Ninety (90) participants from 15 countries of the continent. The major recommendations drawn from the dialogue are;
- The need for the urgent inclusivity of African Youth in the popularization and advocacy of the 5R Frameworks (Recognition, Reduction, Redistribution, Representation and Reward) to address heavy Unpaid Care and Domestic Work (UCDW) in Africa;
- African Government should prioritize investment in social services such as the provision of clean water and sanitation, clean energy, vocational training, and public transport; and in social infrastructure, such as care services and health services, which will reduce the heavy burden of women involved in care and domestic work;
- An annual dialogue with Youths and Youth-Led Organisations to discuss current issues around the reduction of Heavy Unpaid Care and Domestic Work and elimination of Violence against Women and Girls (VAWG).
B. Second Regional Dialogue with Women and Women-Led Organisations:
The second regional dialogue was titled, “Women, Positive Masculinity and Unpaid Care and Domestic Work (UCDW)” held on Monday 10th October 2022 with Sixty-Two (62) participants drawn from Officials of the African Union – Women, Youth and Gender Directorate, Women’s Movement and Networks, CSOs, NGOs, CBOs, Development Partners, GEWE Experts, and other Stakeholders. The two major recommendations from the dialogue are;
- Member States should recognise unpaid care work at the national policy level and consider it as a central activity for well-being to be redistributed between men and women, as well as between the family and the State. States’ failures to provide, regulate and fund domestic and care formal services increase the burden for communities, families and especially women;
- Creation of initiatives by Member States to completely eradicate toxic masculinity which transcends national borders, age, generations, and ideas of race and ethnicity, and replace them with positive masculinity to promote a culture of human rights, to promote gender-equitable behaviours, to teach boys and men different methods of resolving conflict that does not resort to notions of masculinity, violence, and pride.
These recommendations were brought forward to the 2nd CSO’s Consultative Meeting on the Heads Of State Conference on Positive Masculinity. It was also presented at the Second African Union Heads of States Conference on Positive Masculinity themed “Advancing actions and promoting positive masculinity to end violence against women and girls” held on 10th November 2022, in Dakar, Senegal and; reflected in one of the five key areas on interventions presented by H.E President Macky Sall, President of the Republic of Senegal and the 2022 AU Chairperson. Click here to read the Conference Outcome Document
Strategic Advocacy for Accountability on Improved Maternal Health in Africa
The MSD for Mothers (MfM), in collaboration with the Gender is My Agenda Campaign (GIMAC) network at the wake of the pandemic in 2020, launched the GIMAC MATERNAL HEALTH INITIATIVE (GMaHI) to support and promote a strategic engagement for national and regional advocacy aimed at accelerated action for maternal and neonatal mortality reduction in Africa to meet Aspiration 1.3 of the Agenda 2063 and SDG 3.1 target (which is to reduce the maternal mortality rate below 70 per 100,000 live births by 2030). This project is being implemented by the Africa Leadership Foundation (ALF) and Femme Africa Solidarite (FAS).
The first phase of the Regional Advocacy Project was implemented by engaging Maternal Health Stakeholders and Policymakers in Nigeria, Senegal and at the African Union level in five (5) different virtual dialogues which serves as a platform to inform regional, National and Sub-National maternal health decision-makers about the challenges of maternal health care system in Nigeria, Senegal, and Africa.
The second phase of the Regional Advocacy project focused primarily on deepening in-country advocacy through field assessment for promising practices, around the major recommendations and outcomes of the first phase in Nigeria, Senegal, Zimbabwe and Kenya. It was evident from the field assessment that the observations and findings cut across all four countries and the African Region at large.
Two major outcomes of the Phase Two project are;
- Advocacy with the Society of Gynecology and Obstetrics of Nigeria (SOGON) to buy-into the concept of the engaging and linking TBAs/CBAs to the Maternal Health Care System due to the obvious negative implications of eliminating TBAs/CBAs on maternal health.
- Passage of the Maternal and Perinatal Death Surveillance (MPDSR) Bill by the Nigerian National Assembly in 2022
The first phase of the Regional Advocacy Project was implemented by engaging Maternal Health Stakeholders and Policymakers in Nigeria, Senegal and at the African Union level in five (5) different virtual dialogues which serves as a platform to inform regional, National and Sub-National maternal health decision-makers about the challenges of maternal health care system in Nigeria, Senegal, and Africa.
The second phase of the Regional Advocacy project focused primarily on deepening in-country advocacy through field assessment for promising practices, around the major recommendations and outcomes of the first phase in Nigeria, Senegal, Zimbabwe and Kenya. It was evident from the field assessment that the observations and findings cut across all four countries and the African Region at large.
Two major outcomes of the Phase Two project are;
- Advocacy with the Society of Gynecology and Obstetrics of Nigeria (SOGON) to buy-into the concept of the engaging and linking TBAs/CBAs to the Maternal Health Care System due to the obvious negative implications of eliminating TBAs/CBAs on maternal health.
- Passage of the Maternal and Perinatal Death Surveillance (MPDSR) Bill by the Nigerian National Assembly in 2022
Past Project Activities
Gender Mainstreaming and Development Planning Workshop
ALF organized a Gender Mainstreaming and Development Planning Workshop for the Senior and Middle management staff of Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited (SPDC), Warri, Delta State, Nigeria. The workshop objectives were to: Sensitise participants on gender concepts and the effect of gender on social relationships between women and men; Build the capacity of staff to appreciate and identify gender gaps in projects planning and conception stages; Strengthen programming skills to appropriately mainstream gender into programme planning for community development. The workshop methodologies: included case studies, brainstorming, plenary discussions, power-point and flip chart presentation, group work, etc.
Nigerian Women Peace Group (NAWOPEG)
The ALF in collaboration with Shell Petroleum Development Corporation organised the National Women Peace Congress. A major outcome of the congress was the inauguration of a National Women Peace Group, a Nigerian women’s initiative on peace management and conflict resolution. The NAWOPEG was engaged in a nationwide campaign against violence as Nigeria prepared to transit from one civil regime to another.
Another outcome of the congress was the organisation of a 4-day intensive training programme on ‘Conflict Transformation Skills’ for a corps of women mediators, peacebuilders, and conflict managers drawn from a cross-section of the various networks of the political class, the organised private sector, professional bodies, civil society organisations and religious institutions across the country.
Another outcome of the congress was the organisation of a 4-day intensive training programme on ‘Conflict Transformation Skills’ for a corps of women mediators, peacebuilders, and conflict managers drawn from a cross-section of the various networks of the political class, the organised private sector, professional bodies, civil society organisations and religious institutions across the country.
Africa Women’s Forum- Cape Town (1998)
ALF convened the first meeting of the African Women’s Forum, in collaboration with Akin Mama wa Afrika with the theme “Leadership and Communication for Empowerment”. The major objective of the meeting was to assess, review and evaluate individual and collective progress made since Accra in promoting the participation of women leaders in political and economic development; devise strategies aimed at enhancing the visibility and effective application of the leadership capacity and capability of women in decision making positions and; strengthen the link between women community leaders and gender development professionals. The meeting resolved that the African Women’s Forum should be designed as a space where all different networks come together to discuss and find common ground and can work in collaboration and partnership.
Africa Women’s Forum- Abidjan (1999)
The 2nd Africa Women’s Forum convened in Abidjan, Cote D’Ivoire under the theme, “Improving the Status of Women in Africa; Challenges for the Future”. The major objectives of the meeting were to; identify strategies that could be adopted for broadening the support base for the Index on the Status of women in Africa, as a negotiation platform towards building a critical mass of women leaders in Africa, and for the advancement of women in general; explore methods that could be used for further broadening and deepening the Index on the Status of Women in Africa and; identify possible modalities and strategies for effectively utilising the Index on the Status of Women in Africa as a strong negotiating platform for women and civil society organisations in Africa.
The Index on the Status of women in Africa was presented by Sara Longwe and Roy Clarke, and it was comprehensively reviewed by Mrs Ruth Odhiambo Ochieng, Director, Isis-WICCE, Uganda. The Index was conceived by using existing baseline data as the framework for progressive improvement, which identifies and distinguishes between 23 two composite indicators, to establish women’s level of empowerment in Africa.
The Index on the Status of women in Africa was presented by Sara Longwe and Roy Clarke, and it was comprehensively reviewed by Mrs Ruth Odhiambo Ochieng, Director, Isis-WICCE, Uganda. The Index was conceived by using existing baseline data as the framework for progressive improvement, which identifies and distinguishes between 23 two composite indicators, to establish women’s level of empowerment in Africa.
Africa Women’s Forum- Tunis, Tunisia (2001)
The 3rd AWF was in collaboration with the African Women’s Committee on Peace and Development (AWCPD), Femme Africa Solidarité (FAS), and the Tunisian Ministry of Women and Family Affairs. The theme of the forum was “Women and Conflict Management in Africa”. The meeting urged all governments that have ratified the Convention on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), to implement the provisions therein and to further refrain from enacting and applying laws or decrees that suppress women’s rights.
Another crucial subject examined was the problem of discrimination and other evils; issues that also form the focus of the World Conference on Racism, Xenophobia, and Intolerance in Durban, South Africa. The meeting noted the significant negative impact of discrimination on the conflict in Africa and on African women and called on the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights as well as other African governments to facilitate greater and effective participation by African women in the process.
Finally, references were made to the contributions of women in conflict management and the meeting was regarded as a starting point in celebrating the accomplishments of African women in different parts of Africa. The valiant contributions of African women in the various peace processes in Burundi, Somalia, Sudan, Chad, Eritrea, the Mano River Union (Sierra Leone, Liberia, Guinea) as well as other parts of Africa were recognised and celebrated.
Another crucial subject examined was the problem of discrimination and other evils; issues that also form the focus of the World Conference on Racism, Xenophobia, and Intolerance in Durban, South Africa. The meeting noted the significant negative impact of discrimination on the conflict in Africa and on African women and called on the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights as well as other African governments to facilitate greater and effective participation by African women in the process.
Finally, references were made to the contributions of women in conflict management and the meeting was regarded as a starting point in celebrating the accomplishments of African women in different parts of Africa. The valiant contributions of African women in the various peace processes in Burundi, Somalia, Sudan, Chad, Eritrea, the Mano River Union (Sierra Leone, Liberia, Guinea) as well as other parts of Africa were recognised and celebrated.
Africa Women’s Forum – Ota
The 4th Africa Women’s Forum was held at the Secretariat of ALF, Ota, Nigeria between 3rd – 5th February 2002. The theme was “African Women and the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD)”. The conference was a joint initiative of the Africa Leadership Foundation and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO). It drew an array of distinguished women, among whom were ministers, women in strategic positions in the civil society organisations, the international organisations, across Africa, Europe and North America.
The conference focused on the role of women in NEPAD and the need to put the initiative on the right footing. The main NEPAD Document as adopted by the NEPAD Steering Committee Meeting in October 2001 was reviewed, gaps were identified, and recommendations were made.
The outcomes of the conference were also discussed during the African Parliamentarians Meeting, a 3-day Regional Conference for African Parliamentarians on Recent Strategic Development Initiatives in Africa. organised by ALF in April 2002. The conference was convened to discuss the three most recent strategic development initiatives in Africa: the African Union (AU), the Conference on Security, Stability, Development and Cooperation in Africa (CSSDCA) and the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) to create broad-based awareness among African parliamentarians as well as mobilize them for effective participation in the implementation of the initiatives.
The conference focused on the role of women in NEPAD and the need to put the initiative on the right footing. The main NEPAD Document as adopted by the NEPAD Steering Committee Meeting in October 2001 was reviewed, gaps were identified, and recommendations were made.
The outcomes of the conference were also discussed during the African Parliamentarians Meeting, a 3-day Regional Conference for African Parliamentarians on Recent Strategic Development Initiatives in Africa. organised by ALF in April 2002. The conference was convened to discuss the three most recent strategic development initiatives in Africa: the African Union (AU), the Conference on Security, Stability, Development and Cooperation in Africa (CSSDCA) and the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) to create broad-based awareness among African parliamentarians as well as mobilize them for effective participation in the implementation of the initiatives.
Africa Women’s Forum – Abuja
The 5th Annual Africa Women’s Forum was held in Abuja, Nigeria. The theme was “Leadership Challenges of Women in the Campaign against HIV/AIDS”. The meeting was in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Action-Aid Africa Office, United Agency for HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), and the National Action Committee on HIV/AIDS (NACA). The conference convened to elaborate on the need to expand the space of engagement of women within the policy framework that has been adopted to contain the continued spread of HIV/AIDS. It was also convened to initiate and develop strategies that will assist women from across the continent to adequately take the leadership required in curbing the pandemic among women and girls.
These various research and projects generated the following publications:
- 2002: Women and Peace in Nigeria: Strategy for Sustainable Development
- 2002: Regional Conference for African Parliamentarians on Recent Strategic Development Initiatives in Africa.
- 2001: Farm House Dialogue -Women, Youths and Good Governance.
- 1998: Africa Women’s Forum – Communication and Leadership for Empowerment
- 1997: Africa Women’s Forum – Empowering Women for the 21st Century: The Challenges of Politics, Business, Development, and Leadership
- 1993: Margaret Ekpo: Lioness in Nigerian Politics
These various research and projects generated the following publications:
- 2002: Women and Peace in Nigeria: Strategy for Sustainable Development
- 2002: Regional Conference for African Parliamentarians on Recent Strategic Development Initiatives in Africa.
- 2001: Farm House Dialogue -Women, Youths and Good Governance.
- 1998: Africa Women’s Forum – Communication and Leadership for Empowerment
- 1997: Africa Women’s Forum – Empowering Women for the 21st Century: The Challenges of Politics, Business, Development, and Leadership
- 1993: Margaret Ekpo: Lioness in Nigerian Politics
Women Economic Empowerment Initiative (WEEI)
In addition to the various programs and projects highlighted above, women have been beneficiaries of other programs of the foundation such as;
Entrepreneurship Training for SMEs and MSMEs
The Entrepreneurship Development Centre of ALF was established to provide business advisory services, entrepreneurship training and access to funding for start-ups and existing businesses with an overall aim of reducing unemployment and tackling poverty in Nigeria. During the first and second phase of the training (2008 – 2017) with funding from Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and Oyo State Government (OYOSG) over 14,800 women were trained with access to credit from different financial institutions and private individuals.
Through the Agri-business Small Medium Enterprise Investment Scheme (AGSMEIS) introduced by the government, ALF has continuously trained over 2,000 women of different social strata across 7 states of the Federation (Ekiti, Kogi, Kwara, Lagos, Ogun, Osun and Oyo States) between 2018 and 2021.
Through the Agri-business Small Medium Enterprise Investment Scheme (AGSMEIS) introduced by the government, ALF has continuously trained over 2,000 women of different social strata across 7 states of the Federation (Ekiti, Kogi, Kwara, Lagos, Ogun, Osun and Oyo States) between 2018 and 2021.
Democratic Leadership Training Workshops (DLTW)
Between 2000 and 2006, ALF organised the DLTW in Nigeria targeted at young adults (female and male) between the ages of 18 and 40, who are professionals, members of CBOs, NGOs, CSOs and youth unions who possess demonstrable leadership qualities and who are in critical positions of influence and over 250 women participated in the workshops.
Parliamentary Support Programme (PSP) (2010-2013)
The PSP was instituted in support of the development of sustainable democratic institutions and promotion of good governance in Nigeria and Africa at large. With support from the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs through the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Nigeria, ALF organised 12 workshops on Entrepreneurship and Wealth Creation; Public Security and Safety; Agriculture and Rural Development; Gender Mainstreaming and budgeting; Health Delivery Systems; Water and Sanitation; Youth Development; Technology and National Development and Human Capital Development. Over 65 women who were staff of State Assemblies participated in the workshop.
Girls Tech Program (G-TECH)
The widespread of COVID-19 has resulted in a more digitally focused world and, the growing digital gender divide shows that men will benefit disproportionately to women since they have greater access. Harnessing this technology to advance gender equality and women’s empowerment is not only vital for the empowerment of women and girls but contributes to achievement of Aspiration 1.2 of the Africa Union Agenda 2063 and the UN SDGs, helping close the digital gender gap in education.
Below are programs projects centred on promoting digital literacy, building and improving the capacity of women and girls in using ICT tools that will eventually improve their employability skills, learning abilities and, increasing and improving their livelihood thus reducing their level of poverty.
Computer Literacy Training for Young Girls in Ibadan, Nigeria
The digital divide between boys and girls in Nigeria is a persistent and growing problem. Girls are less likely to have access to technology, including computers and the internet, than boys. This can have a negative impact on their education, career prospects, and overall life chances.
In a bid to close the gap, the ALF organised a three days free Girls Tech/Computer Literacy training targeted at Secondary School Students, Girls awaiting admission into a tertiary Institution and Girls in their first year in University. The training provided the participants with hands-on experience using computers, as well as an understanding of basic computer concepts, Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Using the internet and creating and sending electronic mail (E-Mail). It is a first of its kind training initiative and subsequent training will be conducted in the course of the year.
In a bid to close the gap, the ALF organised a three days free Girls Tech/Computer Literacy training targeted at Secondary School Students, Girls awaiting admission into a tertiary Institution and Girls in their first year in University. The training provided the participants with hands-on experience using computers, as well as an understanding of basic computer concepts, Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Using the internet and creating and sending electronic mail (E-Mail). It is a first of its kind training initiative and subsequent training will be conducted in the course of the year.
EXPLORE OUR SECRETARIAT
Centre For Gender Equality And Research
The Centre for Gender Equality and Research (CGER) promotes gender equity through research, advocacy, education, and policy reform. CGER conducts research to identify systemic inequalities, organizes capacity-building workshops for policymakers and leaders, and runs public awareness campaigns against gender-based violence and biases. CGER works towards creating more inclusive economies and equitable societies through partnerships with international agencies, academia, and grassroots organizations.
The Africa Leadership Foundation (ALF) promotes women’s rights and gender equality through initiatives and networks such as the Gender Is My Agenda Campaign (GIMAC) Network. The newly established ALF Centre for Gender Equality and Research (CGER) will spearhead ALF’s gender-related efforts.
GENDER AND RESEARCH ANALYTICS
The CGER conducts research on women's rights and gender issues to inform effective development policies. Its focus areas include health, leadership, and economic empowerment, with research efforts aimed at advancing women's rights across various sectors.
a. Research on Social Investment Priority of Africans and Unpaid Care and Domestic Work (2021): ACGEQ and OXFAM conducted a study on gender equality in COVID-19 response, focusing on unpaid care work and its impact on economic empowerment and poverty reduction, to inform policy advocacy with the African Union and other stakeholders.
b. Creation of the Maputo Protocol Scorecard and Index (MPSI): ACGEQ, Plan International, and the African Union collaborated on a project to develop a Scorecard and Index Framework for assessing State Parties' implementation of the Maputo Protocol, evaluating progress on women's rights in Africa.
a. Research on Social Investment Priority of Africans and Unpaid Care and Domestic Work (2021): ACGEQ and OXFAM conducted a study on gender equality in COVID-19 response, focusing on unpaid care work and its impact on economic empowerment and poverty reduction, to inform policy advocacy with the African Union and other stakeholders.
b. Creation of the Maputo Protocol Scorecard and Index (MPSI): ACGEQ, Plan International, and the African Union collaborated on a project to develop a Scorecard and Index Framework for assessing State Parties' implementation of the Maputo Protocol, evaluating progress on women's rights in Africa.
GIRLS IN STEM PROGRAMME (G-STEM)
The G-STEM program targets senior secondary school girls to bridge the gender gap in STEM fields by complementing their knowledge, deepening understanding, building interest, and supporting transition to higher education.
GENDER TECH PROGRAM (G-TECH)
ACGEQ bridges the digital gender divide by promoting digital literacy and ICT skills among women, enhancing their employability, learning, and livelihood, and ultimately reducing poverty.
POLICY DIALOGUES AND ADVOCACY
The centre organizes policy dialogues with stakeholders to review and reform gender policies, identifying gaps and providing recommendations. One such dialogue focused on reducing maternal and neonatal deaths in Africa.
Strategic Advocacy for Maternal and Neonatal Reduction in Africa (2020/21)
ACGEQ, in partnership with various organizations, coordinated a regional consultation to reduce maternal and neonatal mortality in Africa. The project involved identifying recommendations and then building partnerships and advocating for policy change, including linking traditional birth attendants to healthcare systems and passing the MPDSR Bill in Nigeria. An advocacy document was developed and shared with key government offices.
Strategic Advocacy for Maternal and Neonatal Reduction in Africa (2020/21)
ACGEQ, in partnership with various organizations, coordinated a regional consultation to reduce maternal and neonatal mortality in Africa. The project involved identifying recommendations and then building partnerships and advocating for policy change, including linking traditional birth attendants to healthcare systems and passing the MPDSR Bill in Nigeria. An advocacy document was developed and shared with key government offices.
PREVIOUS PROGRAMMES
Over the years the centre has continued to work on several activities such as:
Gender Research and Analytics
The Africa Leadership Foundation (ALF) has conducted several gender-related research studies and published over five research papers on the topic. Some are listed below:
i. ALF and the Empowering Women in Agriculture Project (2018-2019):
EWA Project aims to recognize and support African women farmers. ALF partnered with EWA and the Federal Ministry of Agriculture to conduct studies on women's roles in Nigerian agriculture, including a survey on their involvement in the agricultural value chain.
ii. Field Visit to Public Health Facilities on Maternal Health Services(2010)
ALF and dRPC organized a study tour for 20 health administrators from 7 Northern Nigerian states to share best practices and learn from successful maternal health programs, including family planning services.
iii. Africa Women’s Forum(AWF)- Cape Town (1998)
The 1st AWF, themed "Leadership and Communication for Empowerment," focused on assessing women's progress in leadership, strengthening networks to enhance women's decision-making roles and a resolve to create a collaborative space for women's networks to discuss and partner.
iv. Africa Women’s Forum(AWF)- Abidjan (1999)
The 2nd AWF discussed the index of and improving women's status in Africa. The meeting aimed to broaden support for the Index, explore ways to deepen its impact, and identify strategies for using it as a negotiating platform for women's advancement and leadership in Africa.
v. Women and Issues – Radio Programme (2000/01)
A radio program, "Women and Issues," was created to discuss gender inequalities and African women's status, covering topics like women's rights, violence, economic empowerment, education, and conflict resolution. The program featured stories from various African countries and profiles of influential women to inspire future female leaders.
vi. Africa Women’s Forum(AWF)- Tunis, Tunisia (2001)
The 3rd Africa Women's Forum, themed "Women and Conflict Management in Africa, urged governments to implement CEDAW and protect women's rights. It highlighted the negative impact of discrimination on conflicts and African women, and celebrated women's contributions to peace processes in various African countries.
vii. Africa Women’s Forum (AWF) – Ota
The 4th AWF held in 2002, focused on African women's roles in the New Partnership for Africa's Development (NEPAD), identifying gaps and making recommendations. The outcomes were later discussed at a parliamentary meeting to raise awareness and mobilize African parliamentarians for NEPAD's implementation.
viii. Africa Women’s Forum(AWF) – Abuja
The 5th AWF, held in Abuja, Nigeria, focused on women's leadership in combating HIV/AIDS, collaborating with UNDP, Action-Aid, UNAIDS, and NACA to develop strategies for women to lead efforts against the pandemic.
The various research and projects generated the following publications:
1. 2002: Women and Peace in Nigeria: Strategy for Sustainable Development
2. 2002: Regional Conference for African Parliamentarians on Recent Strategic Development Initiatives in Africa.
3. 2001: Farm House Dialogue -Women, Youths and Good Governance.
4. 1998: Africa Women’s Forum - Communication and Leadership for Empowerment
5. 1997: Africa Women’s Forum - Empowering Women for the 21st Century: The Challenges of Politics, Business, Development and Leadership
6. 1993: Margaret Ekpo: Lioness in Nigerian Politics
i. ALF and the Empowering Women in Agriculture Project (2018-2019):
EWA Project aims to recognize and support African women farmers. ALF partnered with EWA and the Federal Ministry of Agriculture to conduct studies on women's roles in Nigerian agriculture, including a survey on their involvement in the agricultural value chain.
ii. Field Visit to Public Health Facilities on Maternal Health Services(2010)
ALF and dRPC organized a study tour for 20 health administrators from 7 Northern Nigerian states to share best practices and learn from successful maternal health programs, including family planning services.
iii. Africa Women’s Forum(AWF)- Cape Town (1998)
The 1st AWF, themed "Leadership and Communication for Empowerment," focused on assessing women's progress in leadership, strengthening networks to enhance women's decision-making roles and a resolve to create a collaborative space for women's networks to discuss and partner.
iv. Africa Women’s Forum(AWF)- Abidjan (1999)
The 2nd AWF discussed the index of and improving women's status in Africa. The meeting aimed to broaden support for the Index, explore ways to deepen its impact, and identify strategies for using it as a negotiating platform for women's advancement and leadership in Africa.
v. Women and Issues – Radio Programme (2000/01)
A radio program, "Women and Issues," was created to discuss gender inequalities and African women's status, covering topics like women's rights, violence, economic empowerment, education, and conflict resolution. The program featured stories from various African countries and profiles of influential women to inspire future female leaders.
vi. Africa Women’s Forum(AWF)- Tunis, Tunisia (2001)
The 3rd Africa Women's Forum, themed "Women and Conflict Management in Africa, urged governments to implement CEDAW and protect women's rights. It highlighted the negative impact of discrimination on conflicts and African women, and celebrated women's contributions to peace processes in various African countries.
vii. Africa Women’s Forum (AWF) – Ota
The 4th AWF held in 2002, focused on African women's roles in the New Partnership for Africa's Development (NEPAD), identifying gaps and making recommendations. The outcomes were later discussed at a parliamentary meeting to raise awareness and mobilize African parliamentarians for NEPAD's implementation.
viii. Africa Women’s Forum(AWF) – Abuja
The 5th AWF, held in Abuja, Nigeria, focused on women's leadership in combating HIV/AIDS, collaborating with UNDP, Action-Aid, UNAIDS, and NACA to develop strategies for women to lead efforts against the pandemic.
The various research and projects generated the following publications:
1. 2002: Women and Peace in Nigeria: Strategy for Sustainable Development
2. 2002: Regional Conference for African Parliamentarians on Recent Strategic Development Initiatives in Africa.
3. 2001: Farm House Dialogue -Women, Youths and Good Governance.
4. 1998: Africa Women’s Forum - Communication and Leadership for Empowerment
5. 1997: Africa Women’s Forum - Empowering Women for the 21st Century: The Challenges of Politics, Business, Development and Leadership
6. 1993: Margaret Ekpo: Lioness in Nigerian Politics
Political Leadership Development (PLED)
PLED is focused on building the capacity of women for effective participation and leadership development. Some of the projects under the PLED program include;
I. Gender Mainstreaming and Development Planning Workshop (2005)
ALF organized a workshop for Shell Petroleum's staff on gender mainstreaming, focusing on sensitizing participants to gender concepts, identifying gaps, and integrating gender into community development planning.
II. Nigerian Women Peace Group (NAWOPEG):
ALF and Shell Petroleum organized the National Women Peace Congress, launching the National Women Peace Group (NAWOPEG) to promote peace management and conflict resolution. NAWOPEG led a nationwide anti-violence campaign and trained women mediators in conflict transformation skills.
I. Gender Mainstreaming and Development Planning Workshop (2005)
ALF organized a workshop for Shell Petroleum's staff on gender mainstreaming, focusing on sensitizing participants to gender concepts, identifying gaps, and integrating gender into community development planning.
II. Nigerian Women Peace Group (NAWOPEG):
ALF and Shell Petroleum organized the National Women Peace Congress, launching the National Women Peace Group (NAWOPEG) to promote peace management and conflict resolution. NAWOPEG led a nationwide anti-violence campaign and trained women mediators in conflict transformation skills.
Women Economic Empowerment Initiative (WEEI)
In addition to the various programs and projects highlighted above, women have been beneficiaries of other programs by the foundation such as;
Entrepreneurship Training for SMEs and MSMEs:
The Africa Leadership Foundation's Entrepreneurship Development Centre provides business training, advisory services, and funding access to reduce unemployment and poverty. It has trained over 16,800 women, providing access to credit and supporting entrepreneurship, particularly through government initiatives like AGSMEIS.
Entrepreneurship Training for SMEs and MSMEs:
The Africa Leadership Foundation's Entrepreneurship Development Centre provides business training, advisory services, and funding access to reduce unemployment and poverty. It has trained over 16,800 women, providing access to credit and supporting entrepreneurship, particularly through government initiatives like AGSMEIS.