By Dr. Martha R. L. Muhwezi, Executive Director, FAWE Africa
As the world commemorates International Women’s Day 2026 under the theme “Give to Gain,” we are reminded of a simple but powerful truth: when we invest in women and girls, entire societies advance. For Africa, investing in girls’ education is not only a moral imperative, but also a strategic pathway to sustainable development, inclusive growth, and lasting stability.
For over three decades, the Forum for African Women Educationalists (FAWE) has worked across the continent to dismantle the barriers that limit girls’ access to quality education. Our journey has shown that when girls are supported to complete secondary school, access tertiary education, and pursue careers in STEM and TVET, the impact extends far beyond the classroom. Educated women strengthen economies, transform communities, and contribute to stronger governance and healthier societies.
Yet millions of African girls still face structural barriers, poverty, early marriage, gender-based violence, and limited pathways to higher education and skills development. If Africa is to realize the aspirations of Agenda 2063, which envisions a prosperous continent driven by the potential of its people, especially women and youth, we must accelerate investment in gender-transformative education systems that unlock opportunities for every girl.
This year’s International Women’s Day is therefore a call to action. Governments, development partners, the private sector, and civil society must deepen their commitment to sustainable financing, innovative learning pathways, and policies that ensure no girl is left behind.
In this spirit, FAWE will convene leaders and partners from across the continent at the 4th FAWE Triennale International Conference on Girls’ Education in Africa, taking place 17–18 November 2026 in Nairobi, Kenya, under the theme: “Investing in Her Future: Accelerating Gender-Transformative Education for African Girls through Sustainable Financing and Innovation.”
Now is the time to act. When we give opportunity to African girls today, we gain a stronger, more prosperous Africa tomorrow.