At a pivotal moment for Africa’s growth, the Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD) embarks on a new chapter of leadership under the presidency of H.E. Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, First Lady of Sierra Leone. With the installation of a new Steering Committee and the commencement of its flagship leadership mandate for 2025-2027, OAFLAD sets out to deepen its impact on critical issues such as education, health, gender-based violence (GBV), and women’s economic empowerment. This renewed leadership promises a strengthened commitment to advancing the rights and opportunities for women, children, and youth across the continent.
Strategic Direction for Sustainable Development
Guided by the OAFLAD Strategic Framework 2025-2030, the organization’s work will focus on four core pillars: education, health, GBV, and women’s economic empowerment. Under this new strategic direction, OAFLAD aims to promote equitable access to education, foster stronger health systems, combat GBV, and support women’s financial independence. Dr. Bio’s leadership emphasizes inclusivity, participation, and accountability, as she works alongside Vice President H.E. Dr. Ana Afonso Dias Lourenço, First Lady of Angola, to drive Africa’s development forward.
Addressing Climate Change and Peace for Resilience
OAFLAD’s renewed mandate recognizes the intersection of climate change and peace as fundamental issues that disproportionately affect women and girls. By embedding gender-responsive climate action and peacebuilding in its initiatives, OAFLAD aims to build long-term resilience across the continent. This focus on climate action and peace is exemplified in OAFLAD’s 2025 campaign, “Building Resilience for Women and Girls in the Face of Climate Change and Conflict.” Launched globally, this campaign connects local realities with international policy platforms, mobilizing governments, the private sector, and civil society for coordinated action.
OAFLAD’s Global Leadership Role
Since its founding in 2002, OAFLAD has played a pivotal role in uniting First Ladies across Africa to address developmental challenges. With nearly 40 members, the organization has served as the first global network of First Ladies, inspiring similar networks in the Caribbean and Latin America. OAFLAD’s influence and partnerships with national leadership, international organizations, and local communities have led to tangible progress in areas such as women’s health, education, and economic empowerment. The network’s credibility and high-level access make it a key player in advancing sustainable development across the continent.
A Vision for a Stronger, More Inclusive Africa
OAFLAD’s renewed leadership marks a new era for Africa’s development. With a clear strategic vision that prioritizes education, health, gender equality, and environmental resilience, the organization is positioned to have a lasting impact on the continent. Through its continued commitment to addressing the most pressing challenges facing women and girls, OAFLAD is helping shape a brighter and more inclusive future for Africa.
