In a compelling celebration of Africa Day, Egypt spotlighted the central role of women in shaping the continent’s future while reaffirming its strategic commitment to African unity and sustainable development. The event, titled “African Women: Building Bridges from Cairo to the Cape,” was hosted by the National Council for Women (NCW), coinciding with the Council’s 25th anniversary, marking a quarter-century of pioneering efforts to empower Egyptian women and elevate their influence across Africa.
Held in Cairo, the high-level forum brought together diplomats, policy leaders, and international organizations in a show of solidarity with Africa’s enduring quest for progress, equity, and environmental resilience.
A Silver Jubilee for a Golden Legacy
Delivering the opening keynote, Dr. Hala Elsaid, Presidential Advisor for Economic Development and former Minister of Planning, saluted the NCW on its silver jubilee, commending its transformative role in national development:
“The National Council for Women has blazed a golden path in institutionalizing women’s empowerment in Egypt. It has reshaped public policy, advanced gender equity, and amplified women’s voices across all sectors of society—anchored by a political leadership committed to a golden era for Egyptian women.”
She underscored that Africa Day is not merely a symbolic date but a celebration of a revolutionary pact, forged over six decades ago, in which African nations pledged to stand united in their struggle for freedom, dignity, and development.
Strategic Partner in Africa’s Rise
Ambassador Wafaa Bassim, a senior member of the NCW and former Egyptian envoy to the United Nations in Geneva, highlighted Egypt’s sustained leadership in African diplomacy:
“From supporting liberation movements to fostering economic and cultural cooperation, Egypt has stood steadfast with its African brothers and sisters. Despite our linguistic and cultural diversity, African women remain the unifying force—preserving heritage and shaping futures.”
Bassim emphasized the necessity of cultural diplomacy and cross-border partnerships to strengthen continental integration.
African Adaptation Initiative
In a recorded message, Dr. Yasmine Fouad, Egypt’s Minister of Environment, emphasized the indispensable role of women in preserving the continent’s ecosystems and combating climate change:
“Women are the primary stewards of Africa’s natural resources. They lead the charge in climate adaptation, sustainable agriculture, and intergenerational education. Their leadership is critical to realizing Agenda 2063 and the Africa we envision.”
She praised initiatives such as the African Adaptation Initiative, launched by President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi in 2015, as pivotal to Africa’s climate resilience strategy. She also highlighted the integral role women play in these initiatives, not as beneficiaries—but as leaders.
Continental Model of Empowerment
Ambassador Badr Abdel Aaty, Egypt’s Permanent Representative to the European Union, declared the NCW a continental model in gender mainstreaming:
“The Council embodies Egypt’s deep commitment to gender equality—not only nationally, but across Arab and African regions. It plays a leading role in regional advocacy, including through its involvement in the CEDAW framework and the National Strategy for the Empowerment of Egyptian Women 2030.”
He further noted Egypt’s role in advancing the African Union’s Agenda 2063, particularly in placing women at the center of sustainable development, regional integration, and peacebuilding.
Digital Equity and Global Leadership
Mohamedou Labarang, Cameroon’s Ambassador to Egypt and Dean of African Ambassadors in Cairo, delivered a heartfelt tribute to the transformative impact of African women:
“From leading nations to driving grassroots change, African women are champions of resilience. Closing the gender gap—particularly in education and digital skills—is imperative. Women are not only change-makers; they are strategic decision-makers shaping Africa’s digital and diplomatic future.”
He acknowledged the role of Egyptian women in elevating regional cooperation, especially in diplomatic and cultural spheres.
Commemorating Legacy, Advancing Progress
The ceremony concluded with the premiere of a short documentary, “The Silver Jubilee of the National Council for Women,” highlighting the Council’s historic achievements and ongoing mission to inspire policy, protect rights, and cultivate a future where every woman contributes to national and continental prosperity.
