As we commemorate International Women’s Day 2025,  African Women’s Development Fund (AWDF) reflects on the remarkable victories, challenges, and unwavering resilience of feminist movements across the African continent. Through in-depth conversations with our partners, we have gathered powerful stories of perseverance, advocacy, and transformative impact.

This year’s theme, “Accelerate Action for Gender Justice” – #AccelerateAction, underscores the urgency of sustaining feminist movements and ensuring that gender justice remains a priority in the face of growing resistance. This article amplifies the voices of AWDF’s KASA, Leading From South, and KOMBOA partners in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Niger, Mozambique, Angola, Zimbabwe, and Nigeria—feminist organizations that continue to break barriers and champion the rights of women and marginalized communities.

REFED-NK, Democratic Republic of Congo: Defending Women’s Rights Amidst Conflict

Operating in North Kivu, Democratic Republic of Congo, Réseau Femmes et Développement  Nord-Kivu has been advocating for women’s rights since 2004. The organization tirelessly works to protect and empower women, girls, children, and marginalized groups, despite persistent instability and human rights violations in the region.

“The current state of our city is deeply alarming, characterized by severe human rights violations, including sexual violence against women and young girls. Since January 23, our activities have been suspended due to escalating insecurity. We have been unable to access our office, as ensuring the safety of our staff is paramount. However, we remain hopeful that peace will soon be restored, and we will once again raise our voices for justice and equality.”
— Deborah Mupita, Executive Secretary, REFED-NK

The call for transitional justice for Congolese women victims of war remains central to REFED’s mission. In times of crisis, their advocacy is more crucial than ever.

CNJFL, Niger: Empowering Young Women Amidst Growing Opposition(LFS Partner)

The Cellule Nigérienne des Jeunes Filles Leaders is committed to strengthening girls’ and women’s leadership, fighting gender-based violence, and promoting education and healthcare access in Niger. However, their mission is increasingly challenged by conservative forces that seek to suppress progress.

“Conservative sociocultural norms and opposition from religious and political groups obstruct the implementation of our initiatives. Despite these barriers, we have adopted transformative approaches that allow us to continue our work effectively. This year, we successfully organized mentorship and leadership camps, equipping over 60 young urban and rural girls with the skills to become changemakers.”
— Halimatou Zika, President, CNJFL

CNJFL’s achievements are made possible through the unwavering solidarity of feminist allies, including AWDF.

 

 

AMPDC, Mozambique: Strengthening the Fight Against Gender-Based Violence (KOMBOA Partner)

In Mozambique, the Associação das Mulheres para Promoção de Desenvolvimento Comunitário plays a pivotal role in advocating for gender justice. Their work focuses on influencing societal attitudes, combating gender-based violence (GBV), and empowering women economically.

“One of our greatest achievements has been the establishment of the Femicide Watch and the Unified System for the Prevention and Response to Gender-Based Violence (GBV). The support from public institutions and feminist movements in Sofala Province has been instrumental in driving institutional change. “
— Angela Jorge, Executive Director, AMPDC

Mwana Pwo, Angola: A Lifelong Commitment to Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights (LFS Partner )

Despite systemic obstacles, Mwana Pwo in Angola continues to provide critical information on sexual and reproductive health. Their work is fueled by an unwavering sense of duty and passion.

“What keeps me going is my deep commitment, passion, and love for this work. Supporting young women who have survived violence and oppression has been the most powerful and transformative aspect of my journey. Even in our lowest moments, we must lift our heads high and keep moving forward.“

— Aida Gilberto João, Gender Assistant, Mwana Pwo

 

Tag a Life International, Zimbabwe: Pushing for Legal Reforms and Leadership

Nyaradzo Mashayamombe , Founder and Executive Director of Tag a Life International, remains steadfast in her fight for women’s rights in Zimbabwe and across Africa.

“Despite rising anti-women movements, I draw strength from the women before me. They fought for our rights, and now it is our duty to carry the baton forward. Each time a girl graduates through our Leadership Economic Mentorship (LEMS) program and steps into public life—whether in politics or business—it is a triumph. One of our young women even became a mayor, proving that feminist activism leads to real change.“

A landmark victory for her organization was leading the advocacy for the Education Amendment Act, signed into law by the President of Zimbabwe. This legislation ensures that girls from rural and low-income communities have access to state-funded basic education.

 

 

Girl Child Art Foundation, Nigeria: Art as a Tool for Healing and Resistance (KASA Partner)

In Nigeria, Girl Child Art Foundation  harnesses the power of art, storytelling, and advocacy to combat gender-based violence.

“We refuse to be silenced. Through murals, community workshops, and creative expression, we create safe spaces where girls reclaim their voices. For us, this was proof that art is not just about painting and drawing—it is a powerful medium for expression, healing, and change. ”
— Blessing Onyejike-Ananaba, Executive Director, GCAF

 

 

The Power of Feminist Funding and Solidarity

The testimonies from AWDF partners reinforce the vital role of feminist funding in ensuring the resilience, growth, and sustainability of grassroots feminist movements. In regions where civic space is shrinking and opposition is intensifying, organizations like AWDF provide crucial support that enables activists to continue their work despite mounting challenges.

As we mark #IWD2025, we reaffirm our commitment to #AccelerateAction—ensuring that feminist movements across Africa remain strong, impactful, and enduring. The fight for justice and gender equality continues, propelled by the steadfast solidarity of women dedicated to creating lasting change.

Bintou Mariam Traoré, communications Officer