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AWDF celebrates its 15th anniversary

By GNA
Social News AWDF celebrates its 15th anniversary
OCT 21, 2016 LISTEN

Accra, Oct. 20, GNA - The African Women's Development Fund (AWDF) says in 15 years of operation, it has supported over 1,200 women's organisations in 42 countries with grants amounting to US$26,000,000.00.

AWDF said the 15th anniversary would be used to highlight their achievements and draw attention to the importance of philanthropy to development as well as contributions of African women to philanthropy on the continent.

A statement signed by Madam Lydia Maclean, the Communications and Fundraising Specialist of AWDF, said "there will be an evening of networking that will bring together women activists from all over Africa".

It said special guests for the event include Leymah Gbowee, 2011 Nobel Peace laureate (Liberia); Nneka Egbuna, global music icon (Nigeria); Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi, AWDF Co-founder and feminist philanthropist; Gifty Anti, Ghanaian Broadcaster and talk show host; and Noella Wiyaala, rising young Ghanaian artist.

The statement said the Sheroes Album, a collection of music, poetry, and film by African women artists and activists will also be launched.

The album is dedicated to transforming lives of African women and helping the continent reach its full potential as well as showcasing the contribution of African women artists to development and social justice issues.

Theo Sowa, the Chief Executive Officer of AWDF, said: 'philanthropy is increasingly becoming a key player in international development and women have always been part of the movement to change the stereotypical image of the African woman as a victim and project her as an agent of change.'

The statement said the AWDF achieved its mission by focusing on the human rights of women; economic empowerment and livelihoods; governance, peace and security; health and reproductive rights; HIV/AIDS; arts, culture and sports.

The AWDF is a leading voice in civil society with a history of successful and effective collaboration and partnerships critical to advancing women's rights in Africa.

AWDF is a feminist social justice organization that promotes leadership and empowerment for African women. It has countered the stereotypical images of African women as helpless victims and promoted the reality of African women as active agents of change for development.

GNA

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