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  3. Akina Mama wa Afrika Marks 40 Years of Women’s Empowerment at International Women’s Health Day Event.

Akina Mama wa Afrika Marks 40 Years of Women’s Empowerment at International Women’s Health Day Event.

1 June 2025, 12:56 am

Sarah Namuddu head of programs AMWA

By Annet Nakato

In a powerful celebration of resilience and progress, Akina Mama wa Afrika (AMwA) marked its 40th anniversary with a vibrant event held at Motiv in Bugolobi, aligning with the global observance of International Women’s Health Day.

The event, themed around feminist leadership and health rights, brought together civil society actors, healthcare advocates, policymakers, and feminist leaders to reflect on the milestones in women’s health and rights—and the challenges that remain.

Sarah Namuddu, Head of programs Program at AMwA, underscored the organization’s four-decade journey in championing women’s rights across Africa.

For four decades, we’ve worked to create a just and equitable society where African women live dignified lives, free from violence and discrimination,” Namuddu said.

“Today, as we mark both our 40-year journey and International Women’s Health Day, we reaffirm our dedication to ensuring that health is recognized not just as a service, but as a right.”

Penal discussion

A highlight of the event was a dynamic panel discussion featuring leading voices in gender justice.

Babra Among, a prominent gender rights advocate, called for sustained investment in women’s health and leadership.

Women’s voices must be at the center of policy-making.

We cannot talk about development without addressing women’s health holistically,” Among said, emphasizing the need for access to quality healthcare, education, and leadership opportunities.

Another panelist, Ruth Muganzi, spoke passionately about the importance of LGBTIQ+ inclusion in advocacy spaces. She stressed the value of amplifying authentic queer voices and narratives, particularly in contexts often silenced by societal norms and mainstream media.Representation matters—especially when it comes to sensitive topics like sexual violence, where LGBTIQ+ individuals face unique and often invisible struggles,” Muganzi said. “Centering queer voices helps foster a more inclusive and accurate understanding of human rights.”

Since its establishment in 1985, Akina Mama wa Afrika has evolved into a pan-African feminist movement, advocating for transformative leadership and health equity for African women and girls.