By Farida Tiemtore, Founder of Héroïnes du Faso, Voix EssentiELLEs of Burkina Faso and Member of the Global Fund Youth Council
Every April 25, World Malaria Day offers us an opportunity to mark the progress made, but also to remember that the disease continues to kill, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. The year 2025 is decisive for the fight against malaria. Several threats are converging: a freeze on US funding, an increase in health and humanitarian crises, and the major challenge represented by the 8ᵉ replenishment of the Global Fund, scheduled for the end of the year. More than ever, it is crucial to place communities, women and young people at the heart of the global response.
It was in this spirit that I took part in the GFAN (Global Fund Advocates Network) meeting, held in Ottawa from April 7 to 10, 2025. It was a high point for dialogue and mobilization, and as an Essential Voice, I stressed the importance of making the realities of communities heard in international decision-making forums.
"The GFAN 2025 meeting in Ottawa made one thing very clear: we cannot win this battle against malaria, HIV and tuberculosis without the commitment of all stakeholders. From communities to parliamentarians, from young people to political decision-makers, everyone has an essential role to play. The upcoming replenishment will only be successful if it reflects the voices, needs and solutions carried from communities to the highest levels of decision-making, " emphasized GFAN Director Katy Kidd Wright.
Francophone pre-conference to refocus regional priorities
Before the main GFAN meeting, I took part in a Francophone pre-conference. It was an excellent opportunity for sharing, mobilizing and coordinating players from French-speaking countries involved in the fight against disease. We discussed ways of amplifying the voice of French speakers within GFAN, who are often under-represented in global advocacy strategies.
A major point of attention was the need to adapt advocacy approaches to Francophone contexts, taking into account cultural realities, language barriers, but also the specific priorities of the countries concerned. On this occasion, I stressed how essential it was to integrate cross-cutting issues such as women's empowerment, sexual and reproductive health, and the fight against gender-based violence (GBV) into responses to malaria. These dimensions are inseparable from overall health, particularly in contexts where women and girls face multiple vulnerabilities.
Communities at the heart of the response
A central message of this GFAN meeting was the need to make the voices of communities heard. After all, they are the ones who know the realities of the disease, who suffer its consequences, but also who come up with concrete solutions. The Essential Voices, in particular, were highlighted as the driving force behind the co-construction of effective strategies. Women and young people play a central role in this response. They are the ones who take care of families, carry out prevention initiatives, and can be the driving force behind local innovations. It is therefore imperative that they are actively included in international decision-making processes, particularly in the governance of the Global Fund.
" If we really want to defeat malaria, we need to rethink the way we finance the response. Traditional mechanisms are no longer sufficient. The Voix EssentiELLEs initiative is a concrete illustration of this: it not only builds the capacities of women and young people at grassroots level, but also empowers them to propose and implement solutions adapted to their own contexts. This model demonstrates that community-centered, gender-sensitive and trust-based financing is not only possible, but above all effective. It 's time for these approaches to be systematically integrated into international health governance, notably through the Global Fund, " said Maelle Ba, Communications and External Relations Advisor at Speak Up Africa and co-chair of the RBM Partnership to End Malaria's Advocacy, Communications and Resource Mobilization Partners Group.
Major challenges: frozen funding and multiple crises
One of the major obstacles raised during the meeting was the freeze on US funding for global health. The United States, a long-standing player and the Global Fund's main donor, has suspended part of its support. This situation directly jeopardizes the progress made in the fight against malaria, but also against HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis. This funding freeze comes against a backdrop of simultaneous humanitarian and health crises: COVID-19, Mpox, geopolitical conflicts, population displacements, and the growing effects of climate change. Together, these factors are weakening healthcare systems and making the need for greater international support all the more urgent.
" We are facing a convergence of crises - health, humanitarian, climatic and geopolitical - which are putting unprecedented pressure on healthcare systems, particularly in the most vulnerable countries. In this complex context, the risks of regression are real. Without a renewed collective commitment and resources commensurate with needs, hard-won advances in the fight against HIV, tuberculosis and malaria could quickly be wiped out. It is imperative that we reinforce our joint efforts, promote more sustainable and inclusive financing approaches, and support community players who are on the front line. More than ever, international solidarity is not an option, but a vital necessity to preserve the progress made and build resilient health systems, " said Françoise Vanni, Director of External Relations and Communications at the Global Fund.
Prioritizing the fight against malaria at national level
African countries, which continue to bear the heaviest burden of malaria, must now reassert their leadership in the fight against this disease. At a time when international funding is dwindling, it is essential to reinvest more endogenous resources and make the fight against malaria a national priority. This implies a strong political commitment, increased funding from national budgets, and a sustainable strengthening of health systems.
The theme of World Malaria Day 2025, "Reinvesting, reimagining and rekindling our common efforts to end malaria", reminds us of the urgent need for collective and renewed mobilization. This means not only rethinking current strategies, but also rekindling the ambition to eradicate this disease with more resilient approaches, adapted to local realities. In this context, initiatives such as Voix Essentielles or catalytic funds can provide support, but they cannot replace a real willingness on the part of the most affected countries to commit themselves, by investing domestic resources and taking strong decisions. The Global Fund's 8ᵉ replenishment, scheduled for the end of the year, will be an important moment, not to perpetuate a dependence on external aid, but to encourage a renewed and balanced commitment between technical partners and endemic countries.
Multilateralism as a lever for concrete solutions
I also took part in a panel on multilateralism, where we discussed how international cooperation can accelerate the fight against malaria. Multilateralism enables governments, international organizations, civil society and the private sector to act together, in a coordinated way, to meet public health challenges, but this model, as it stands today, is beginning to run out of steam. The panelists put forward some concrete avenues: creating more flexible financing mechanisms, strengthening community care networks, and stepping up awareness-raising efforts in high-risk areas. But above all, it was stressed that decisions must be made with communities, not for them.
Strengthening Francophone voices and participation in governance forums
In this spirit, Voix Essentielles actively participates in GFAN's Francophone calls, which have become a strategic space for updating, exchanging and coordinating global health advocacy. These calls are essential to ensure that the realities of French-speaking countries are taken into account at all levels. Upcoming priorities also include the 53ᵉ Global Fund Board meeting, a key moment to ensure that the delegations representing us effectively defend our voices, needs and priorities. It is essential that decisions taken at this level reflect the realities of communities, and not just political or institutional considerations.
Together for a malaria-free future
The fight against malaria cannot be won without collective commitment, stronger support for communities, and renewed political will. Women, young people and local communities must be recognized as players in their own right, not merely as beneficiaries. To succeed, we need sustainable funding, ambitious international cooperation and equitable representation of community voices in all decision-making bodies. On this World Malaria Day, let us remember that the end of malaria is possible if we place people, social justice and equity at the heart of our actions.
Voix EssentiELLES is an ambitious initiative coordinated by Speak Up Africa, with the invaluable support of the CHANEL Foundation. Its aim is to amplify the voice and active participation of women and girls in decision-making on health and human rights.
The first phase, which ended in 2024, enabled 38 community organizations in Senegal, Burkina Faso and Côte d'Ivoire to successfully carry out advocacy actions and activities on key issues such as gender-based violence, sexual and reproductive health, HIV, tuberculosis and malaria.
Phase 2 launched in Senegal, Burkina Faso and Côte d'Ivoire
After a successful phase 1, the Voix EssentiELLES initiative entered its second phase with strategic workshops held in Senegal, Burkina Faso and Côte d'Ivoire in February 2025. These meetings enabled the beneficiary organizations to exchange views on the results achieved previously, to take note of the recommendations resulting from the evaluation of the first phase, and to explore together the strategic directions needed to continue and amplify their impact.
Among the priority issues identified at these meetings were the importance of carrying out concerted actions in national networks, strengthening synergies between organizations, and increasing collective mobilization to effectively influence public policies in favor of health and gender equity. New collective objectives were also defined, including the need to intensify advocacy actions to positively influence public policies in favor of women and girls.
In Côte d'Ivoire, this dynamic was enriched by complementary strategic visits. A meeting with Dr Danielle Adjafi, President of the CCM, provided an opportunity to discuss the challenges of coordinating CSOs and strengthening collaboration. In addition, an exchange with the head of the Programme National de Lutte contre les Violences Basées sur le Genre (PNLVBG) explored opportunities for collaboration with Voix EssentiELLES organizations around key events.
Voix EssentiELLES takes root in Togo and Benin
The project entered a new phase with the expansion into Togo and Benin, with a total of 20 new beneficiary organizations (10 in each country). In Lomé, on March 6 and 7, then in Cotonou, on March 10 and 11, the newly integrated organizations were able to discover the strategies and orientations of the second phase. These meetings also provided an opportunity to identify strategic partnerships with local and international institutional players, consolidating a strong momentum in favor of women's inclusion in these two new countries.
With this expansion, Voix EssentiELLES confirms its determination to foster the emergence of a new generation of women leaders capable of influencing decision-making and health policies and human rights in French-speaking Africa.
Thanks to the collective commitment of the 60 beneficiary organizations and our partners, this second phase promises to considerably amplify the already tangible impact of the project until 2027. Let's continue together to transform the future by empowering women and girls to participate fully in the decisions that affect them.
The annual 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) campaign offers an opportunity to unite energy, voices, and ideas around a common goal: eliminating all forms of violence against women and girls. To mark this mobilization, Speak Up Africa supported members of the Voix EssentiELLES Network in Burkina Faso, Senegal, and Côte d'Ivoire last November in implementing advocacy actions aimed at promoting women's participation in the fight against violence—whether medical, economic, physical, or sexual.
These discussion forums also highlighted the importance of private and public partnerships in combating GBV and integrating women's and community perspectives into the health and protection sectors.
Whether through panel discussions, sports workshops, or legal advocacy initiatives, these actions reflect the richness of approaches adopted by local women leaders to address the diverse challenges encountered on the ground.
The realization of women's rights cannot be achieved without access to healthcare. Following this philosophy, the Voix EssentiELLES Network in Burkina Faso was invited to host a session at the launch conference of the Burkina Faso Chapter of the African Women Lawyer Association last November, under the theme: "The Impact of Health on Women's Economic and Social Empowerment."
During this panel, Burkinabé Voix EssentiELLES members highlighted various community approaches that facilitate women's empowerment through health interventions.
Farida Sawadogo (IES Femmes) emphasized the importance of health and wellness-focused initiatives to strengthen women's autonomy. Toé Nadine (Association Against School Pregnancies) raised awareness about the impact of early pregnancies on young girls' development. Nana Pauline (Association for the Support of Vulnerable Women and Children) showcased efforts to combat GBV and the challenges of supporting survivors. Maïmouna Nacro (Association of Women with Disabilities Battling in Burkina Faso – AFHBB) highlighted the specific healthcare needs of women with disabilities, often overlooked in development policies.
These discussions underscored the vital role of health as a fundamental pillar of women's empowerment while demonstrating the transformative impact of local, women-led initiatives.
During the 2024 Scientific AIDS Days, held from November 26 to 28 in Dakar, the Voix EssentiELLES Senegal Network organized two interactive panels on the links between community health and the fight against GBV.
The discussions emphasized the crucial role of women and youth in prevention and advocacy, drawing from local organizations' experiences.
"Female leadership in health is not a choice—it is a necessity. With 70% of women in our organizations, we are the backbone of community action."
— Aissatou Mbaye Ndiaye, President of the CSVA
Organizations such as ABOYA, the Civil Society Monitoring, Alert, and Advocacy Committee (CSVA), and the Young Girls' Club of Kolda shared best practices from their field activities, such as integrating reproductive health services into HIV prevention efforts and developing digital tools to improve support for GBVs survivors.
These discussions also highlighted the unexpected role of community organizations as intermediaries between youth, public authorities, and healthcare providers, reinforcing the idea that access to quality healthcare is essential for breaking cycles of stigma and violence.
Additionally, on December 7 and 8, 2024, Speak Up Africa and the Basketball Africa League (BAL) brought together over 100 young female basketball players for a workshop combining sports and GBVs awareness.
Voix EssentiELLES leaders, including Sylvie Diack from the Young Girls' Club of Kolda, Fatoumata Sy from the Senegalese Association for the Future of Women and Children (ASAFE), and Mbissine Ndior from the Youth Network for the Promotion of the Abandonment of Female Genital Mutilation and Child Marriage (RJPAMGF/ME), shared their expertise on GBV prevention and leadership while raising awareness among young girls about the importance of consent, personal boundaries, and respect in sports.
This initiative demonstrated how basketball can serve as a powerful platform for promoting gender equality and empowerment, equipping young athletes to become champions of change in their communities.
In Côte d'Ivoire, the Voix EssentiELLES Network organized a panel on the holistic support of women affected by GBVs, bringing together experts, community leaders, and institutional representatives.
The discussions revealed challenges such as limited access to psychosocial and legal services while highlighting solutions based on collaborative synergies among key stakeholders.
Panelists emphasized that holistic support goes beyond psychological assistance—it must also include social, health, and economic dimensions to help survivors rebuild their lives.
Marie Louise Yao, a gender expert, also reminded the audience that denunciation is a crucial tool in reducing GBV cases while urging local authorities and social actors to strengthen protection measures for victims.
This Voix EssentiELLES initiative, which was the culmination of a campaign carried out across several Ivorian cities, marked a significant milestone in awareness efforts in Côte d'Ivoire. It encouraged communities to take an active role in ending GBV, illustrating once again the power of mobilizing local and collective approaches to advance gender equality and protect women's fundamental rights.
The initiatives carried out in these three countries reflect the diversity of approaches needed and the strength of collective action to end GBV. By supporting local women leaders, Speak Up Africa contributes to building societies where health, gender equality, and community well-being are priorities. These collective actions serve as a reminder that by uniting expertise, commitment, and resources, we can transform mindsets and build a more just and equitable future.
Each year, the 16 Days of Activism campaign (from November 25 to December 10) provides an opportunity to highlight initiatives and approaches that contribute to the reduction and eradication of gender-based violence (GBV) in our communities.
On December 7 and 8, 2024, Speak Up Africa and the Basketball Africa League (BAL) renewed their commitment to ending gender-based violence by organizing the second edition of their joint action to spotlight the importance of youth leadership and violence prevention in sports. The two-day event brought together young female basketball players, aged 10 to 23, for an engaging and educational experience that transcended sports, showcasing how empowerment and awareness can lead to societal change.
Acknowledging the transformative potential of sports, Speak Up Africa and BAL designed an initiative leveraging basketball as a platform to promote leadership and raise awareness among young girls about GBV. Three leaders from the Voix EssentiELLEs network—Sylvie Diack from “Club de Jeunes filles de Kolda”, Fatoumata Sy from “Association Sénégalaise pour l'Avenir de la Femme et de l’Enfant”, and Mbissine Ndior from “Réseau des Jeunes pour la Promotion de l'Abandon des Mutilations Génitales Féminines et des Mariages d'Enfants (RJPA-MGF-ME)”—played a key role as workshop leaders during the awareness sessions. These inspiring women brought their extensive experience in youth mobilization and intergenerational dialogue to the court, creating a unique space where education meets empowerment.
Highlighting Women’s Voices and Expertise
The involvement of Voix EssentiELLEs members emphasized the importance of prioritizing women’s voices and expertise in efforts to create inclusive and equitable communities. The workshop leaders focused on participatory activities and concrete examples to ensure that young participants could effectively identify and grasp the lessons.
On the first day, 30 young women aged 18 to 23 explored the many forms, signs, and impacts of GBV, as well as strategies to foster safe and supportive environments in sports, understanding concepts such as boundaries and consent.
On the second day, a younger group of 85 girls aged 10 to 15 joined the camp to gain the tools needed to advocate for themselves both on and off the court. Through exercises designed to identify situations in their daily practice where discrimination, abuse, or violence could occur, these young athletes showcased their confidence and strength as emerging champions of change within their communities.
Basketball served as a unifying force and a tool for solidarity throughout the event, teaching teamwork, communication, and advocacy. With the support of Voix EssentiELLEs, the players not only learned about gender-based violence and leadership but also witnessed firsthand how other women leaders drive change in their communities.
Inspiring the Next Generation
By the end of the event, the young athletes left with more than just improved basketball skills. They gained knowledge, inspiration, and a renewed determination to advocate for equality and combat violence in all its forms. The facilitators from Voix EssentiELLEs demonstrated that empowering young girls goes beyond the classroom or the court—it’s about equipping them with the skills and confidence to lead the change they want to see.
Together, Speak Up Africa and the Basketball Africa League showcased how organizations with shared values can amplify their impact by combining their resources, expertise, and platforms.
Based on an interview with Hawa Ba, Coordinator of AMFE SENEGAL-Association pour le Maintien des Filles à l'École at theUniversité Gaston Berger de Saint-Louis.
On the occasion of the 16 Days of Activism campaign against gender-based violence, Voix EssentiELLES gives the floor to Hawa Ba, a young leader committed to the fight against gender-based violence in Senegal and for equitable access to education for girls. Hawa began her career as president of the local unit of the Association pour le Maintien des Filles à l'École in Ansde Balla (Matam), and is now coordinator of the AMFE SENEGAL branch at the Université Gaston Berger in Saint-Louis. She tells us about her career.
Growing up in Asnde Balla, I witnessed a disturbing reality: young girls rarely had the chance to go to secondary school, as they were married off as early as the age of 13, often to much older men. For many of my friends, this was their fate. They were forced to give up their studies, abandon their dreams and concentrate on starting a family before they had a chance to understand who they were or even what they wanted to become.
This injustice was the fire that fueled my passion to fight for gender equality and against gender-based violence (GBV) within the Senegalese association AMFE (Association pour le Maintien des Filles à l'École) engaged under the Voix EssentiELLES initiative. I saw for myself the extent to which these harmful practices - early marriage and female genital mutilation (FGM) - are deeply rooted in tradition, making it almost impossible to change socio-cultural norms. Even with the support of my family, it was difficult to overcome stereotypes. Gender-based violence is a taboo subject in many communities, and it wasn't easy to engage in dialogue.
But with perseverance, dialogue began and barriers began to fall. It's essential to involve young girls in all health-related decision-making bodies, as they are the first to be affected by gender-based violence, and it's equally important to involve young men to promote positive masculinity. If young men understand the impact of GBV and the universal principle of human rights, they can be excellent allies in helping us change the discourse in our communities. The voice of young girls and boys is powerful, and their participation in awareness campaigns and peer-to-peer learning sessions is essential to creating lasting change.
Mentoring and leadership development
Mentoring has been a major influence in my leadership journey. Since 2020, I've had the privilege of being guided by Woppa Diallo, AMFE's founding president. Her confidence in me showed me that I could turn my dreams into reality and, more importantly, that I had the responsibility to act, and I was able to climb the ladder within the association. In 2023, I took part in the "She for Her - Ambassador for a Day" program, where I met the Finnish ambassador. Seeing her in such a leadership position was a revelation. It reaffirmed my belief that women are just as capable as men of taking on important roles and making impactful decisions.
Bringing about real change in the community
Since joining AMFE, I've seen our advocacy efforts begin to bear fruit. One of the biggest challenges for girls in my community was the lack of access to secondary schools. Parents didn't feel comfortable sending their daughters to other towns to further their education, so only boys were allowed to continue their studies. To solve this problem, AMFE set up a system in which mothers in the schools act as guardians for these girls. They provide safe accommodation during the week, and the girls return home at weekends. This system has reassured parents, and today more girls are allowed to pursue higher education.
Another major advance has been the improvement in communication between parents and children. Our discussions on the dangers of early marriage and FGM have opened up a space for families to discuss these issues openly. Parents are beginning to understand more clearly the serious consequences of these practices on the sexual health and psychology of the girls concerned, and we are seeing them reconsider long-established traditions that are harming their children.
Our work doesn't stop there. We lobby political leaders, village chiefs and local authorities to ensure that harmful practices such as child marriage and FGM are abolished once and for all. We've even called on the Badienou Gokh, community godmothers who have the trust of the local people and can intervene when they see something wrong. Thanks to their involvement, we've been able to set up an alert and care system. In this way, we remain vigilant and responsive to cases of gender-based violence in our communities.
Looking ahead: a future without gender-based violence
Today, more people are taking part in our discussions, sharing their ideas and contributing to the cause. AMFE has grown, and new cells have been formed in which young people are taking over. Each of these cells has a mentor, someone the parents trust to guide the members and keep them focused on their goals. This system enables us to offer leadership opportunities to young girls and boys, and makes a real difference to the way the community perceives their role. Civic engagement, whether you're a young woman or a young man, is the key to social justice.
My vision of the future
Looking ahead, I see a future where women and girls in Senegal - and around the world - are empowered, where harmful practices such as early marriage and FGM are eliminated, and where all young people, regardless of gender, have equal access to education and opportunity. But for this vision to become reality, young people need to get involved.
To those who want to make a difference in their community, I say: "Start by believing in yourself. Believe in your ability to create change. Take the time to understand your community, and be patient. Change takes time. Listen to people's experiences, create a dialogue and involve others in the conversation. Finally, don't hesitate to get involved. Join activities, participate in discussions and become a player in the social justice movement. Together, we can change the world."
"Let the girls choose; dear parents, I beg you, Hear [our] will!"
By Farida Tiemtore, Founder of Héroines du Faso, Voix EssentiELLES du Burkina Faso and Member of the Global Fund Youth Council
October 2024 was packed with dynamic and inspiring events for global health, with youth at the forefront. As Voix EssentiELLES du Burkina and a member of the Global Fund's Youth Council, I had the opportunity to take part in the World Health Summit 2024 in Berlin and the Youth Health Summit, an initiative that brings young leaders together from different backgrounds and networks around a common goal: supporting the Global Fund's next Replenishment Conference in 2025.
Youth Health Summit: Co-created to support the fight against malaria and the Global Fund's 8th Replenishment Conference
The Youth Health Summit was organized by the RBM Partnership to End Malaria Youth Workstream and the Global Fund. The event brought together young leaders from different international networks such as the International Federation of Medical Students' Associations (IFMSA), the International Pharmaceutical Students Federation (IPSF), the Global Fund Advocates Network (GFAN) Africa and Asia, as well as the ONE organization, to brainstorm strategies that can unite young people’s voices in the fight against malaria and supporting the next Global Fund replenishment.
For me, this experience demonstrated the power of youth mobilization because it is clear that our determination and commitment are driving forces behind the Fund's resources, essential in the fight against HIV, tuberculosis and malaria. As Voix EssentiELLES du Burkina Faso and a member of the Global Fund's Youth Council, this summit offered me a valuable opportunity to share the reality of the many Burkinabe young people and women who are affected by malaria and facing the challenges of care. I was able to highlight the importance of youth participation in decision-making processes and access to international platforms. I was also able to discuss, with other committed young people, how we can get involved and come up with new ways of positively influencing global health financing. Together, we identified our strengths as young leaders and discussed the importance of mobilizing our communities through awareness raising campaigns, actively championing causes at national and international levels, and participating in research to support healthcare innovation.
The World Health Summit: Fostering trust and innovation for a healthier world
The World Health Summit highlighted important discussions on global health. I had the opportunity to attend strategic sessions such as the impact of Gavi and the Global Fund, health in the context of climate change, and the importance of investing in women's health. A session dedicated to innovation in the fight against malaria, organized by Friends of the Global Fund Europe in partnership with the private sector, also revealed promising solutions for eliminating this disease. In addition, I took part in a meeting of civil society partners with Peter Sands, Executive Director of the Global Fund. In this session, organized by the Global Fund Advocates Network (GFAN), the Executive Director first presented the Global Fund's priorities given the current context of multiple crises, ahead of the next Replenishment Conference, and also highlighted the key role of civil society and youth networks in mobilizing malaria-endemic countries.
Intergenerational dialogue: When young people and leaders join forces
One of the highlights of the World Health Summit was the Intergenerational Dialogue. Alongside notable figures such as Dr Michael Adekunle Charles, CEO of the RBM Partnership to End Malaria, and Peter Sands, Executive Director of the Global Fund, we discussed how to improve the involvement of young people in the fight against malaria. When I spoke, I stressed the importance of considering young people not just as a resource but as strategic players capable of providing innovative and sustainable solutions. As Voix EssentiELLES, I feel I have a special responsibility to ensure that the voices of young women from Burkina Faso and other African countries are heard at the highest levels of global health. I therefore called for greater support for young people, particularly in the fields of digital technology and community advocacy, so that we can have a significant impact in our communities. The feedback from leaders was encouraging and showed that young people’s potential is recognized, even if more structured support and funding are still needed to achieve our common goals.
Galien Africa Youth Forum: Women, youth and climate resilience
At the Galien Africa Youth Forum, held in Dakar, I was honoured to take part in a panel on the theme of “Climate and health resilience in Africa: Women and youth leading the way” on 23 October 2024. The discussions highlighted the impact of climate change on diseases such as malaria, and how young people, especially women, can be at the heart of climate resilience in their communities. My contribution focused on the importance of mobilizing young people to incorporate climate challenges into public health, with a special focus on malaria. This discussion reinforced my commitment to pursuing my digital initiatives, notably through my blog, in order to amplify the voice of women and promote their role in disease prevention. Participating in this panel enabled me to forge valuable links with other committed young people, sharing perspectives and solutions for strengthening our impact at regional level.
These events underlined a very important point: young people are not just the future, they are the present of global health. Through our passion and our energy, we have the potential to move the lines and actively contribute to a healthier world. For this impact to be sustainable, however, strong partnerships and structured support are essential. As a member of the Global Fund's Youth Council and Voix EssentiELLES du Burkina, I am convinced that we have not only the will but also the power to drive change in healthcare and in the global development ecosystem more widely.
Speak Up Africa has placed women’s leadership at the center of its strategic programming and, on the occasion of International African Women’s Day (IAWD), joins forces with the Voix EssentiELLEs network communities to reaffirm the commitment to the development and empowerment of women leaders across Africa. This year’s theme, “Investing in Women: Accelerating Progress,” calls for broad collaboration between governments, businesses, civil society, and individuals to advance gender equality and women’s empowerment.
Exemplifying this transformative progress, we celebrate Anne-Cécile Konan, President of the National Union of Disabled Women of Côte d’Ivoire (UNAFEHCI), who has been committed to the integration and inclusion of women living with disabilities in society for nearly 20 years. Based on the observation of an increased marginalization, lack of representation and access to resources, Anne-Cécile has led a compelling advocacy since 2006 to amplify the concerns of these populations and involve the communities of her central region in Côte d'Ivoire in health prevention. Her efforts have earned her recognition from local authorities for her awareness-raising activities on sexual and reproductive health and the fight against malaria. With the support and backing of religious and community leaders, as well as health authorities in her region, her association has been able to deploy more field visits to rural areas to raise awareness of the needs of people living with disabilities and their inclusion in access to health services. In addition, UNAFEHCI also addresses the livelihood issues of these populations with training programs and income-generating activities. The association is also a member of the women's section of the West African Federation of Disabled People and is a member of the Pan-African Network of Women with Disabilities.
Her community activism has been recognized internationally through her participation in the Hive Africa Global Leaders Program - a 3-day immersive workshop focused on community leadership, and a nomination to the HIVE Africa Hall of Fame at the awards ceremony on July 11 in Abidjan. HIVE Africa is a global community that supports leaders and social entrepreneurs committed to creating a better world through transformational leadership programs. This distinction highlights her influential role in improving health policies and the empowerment of women in Africa.
Participating in the HIVE Africa Hall of Fame has reinforced my belief that the empowerment of women, especially women with disabilities, is essential for the progress of our continent. By investing in their potential, we build stronger and more resilient communities.
Anne Cécile Konan
Anne-Cécile and her organization’s work under Voix EssentiELLES illustrates the catalytic effect of investing in women leaders on socio-political change and sustainable development. Their commitment has given a voice to often marginalized groups and shaped policies that directly impact their lives.
On this day that positions African women as agents of change and development, we celebrate Anne-Cécile Konan’s leadership and the collective strength of women across our network. Join us in celebrating these remarkable successes and continue to encourage African women in their journey towards leadership and empowerment. Together, let’s work for meaningful change and unity across our continent!
Launched in July 2021, the Voix EssentiELLES network is an initiative that currently brings together 39 organizations in Burkina Faso, Côte D’Ivoire and Senegal, around the development of the capacities of grassroots community organizations in awareness-raising and advocacy for the inclusion of women and their perspectives in health decisions. Adopting a pan-African vision of gender-focused advocacy, this initiative plans to expand to other countries in the French-speaking region of West and Central Africa over the next three years. The objective is to further strengthen women’s access to decision-making bodies, where promising results have already been recorded.
Speak Up Afric'Art is a dynamic initiative that embraces art as a means of expression and change, encouraging African artists to use their creativity to highlight critical social issues. This unique space not only showcases Africa's diverse artistic talents, but also catalyzes discussion on key themes such as public health, gender equality and human rights.
This year, the first edition is proud to present Fatimata Mamadou Lamine Sy, a passionate activist, Voix EssentiELLES and Executive Secretary of the Association Sénégalaise pour l'Avenir de la Femme et de l'Enfant (ASAFE). Her personal and professional story is a poignant testimony to the resilience and power of women's activism. Fatimata, a victim of female genital mutilation herself, has transformed her experience into a driving force for change, becoming an influential voice in the fight for the rights of women and girls in Africa.
Through Voix EssentiELLES, a program dedicated to empowering women and girls in decision-making spheres, particularly in healthcare governance, Fatimata embodies the spirit of leadership and commitment that Speak Up Afric'Art aims to promote.
Speak Up Afric'Art invites the public to discover the story of Fatimata Sy, through her few lines.
Fatimata Sy : Voix EssentiELLES
My name is Fatimata Mamadou Lamine Sy, Executive Secretary of ASAFE. My path in the world of public health and humanitarian aid is not just professional, it's deeply personal. As a victim of female genital mutilation, I took my pain and anger and turned them into a driving force for change, passionately defending the rights of women and girls in the face of often overwhelming adversity. I often say that, "Participating in the emancipation of women and girls is the duty of every citizen."
Fatimata Sy : Voix EssentiELLES
My name is Fatimata Mamadou Lamine Sy, Executive Secretary of ASAFE. My path in the world of public health and humanitarian aid is not just professional, it's deeply personal. As a victim of female genital mutilation, I took my pain and anger and turned them into a driving force for change, passionately defending the rights of women and girls in the face of often overwhelming adversity. I often say that, "Participating in the emancipation of women and girls is the duty of every citizen."
Originally from Guédiawaye, a suburb of Dakar, I come from a place where certain harmful traditions such as excision unfortunately persist. These traditions shaped my youth and sowed the seeds of my future resistance. My commitment has brought about positive change, but at a high personal cost, often making me feel isolated within my own community.
In 2011, I joined the Association des Jeunes pour le Développement (AJD/Pasteef) as an assistant program manager. Since then, I have boldly led several initiatives to combat violence against women. My current role at ASAFE enables me to touch even more lives, educating and fighting against dangerous traditional practices.
Let's not forget that: "To really fight against female genital mutilation, it's crucial to involve young people, future parents, in this conversation."
My studies in social work, finance, public management and human rights have enriched my understanding and ability to act. Recently elected deputy mayor of Guédiawaye, I continue to use my position to amplify the voices of the marginalized.
Under my presidency, ASAFE is tackling crucial issues such as child marriage, early pregnancy and female genital mutilation. We provide support and raise awareness, while also combating contemporary scourges such as Covid-19 and malaria. ASAFE, made up mainly of young women, embodies our commitment to a future where women are leaders and free.
Beyond my role at ASAFE, my political position enables me to advocate for better representation of young people and women in the decisions that affect us all. I am determined to continue my fight for the autonomy and dignity of all women.
Speak Up Afric'Art represents a convergence of my passion for art and my commitment to social change. This platform enables artists, experts and decision-makers to collaborate and express African issues through creative works. Art challenges stereotypes and celebrates our diversity and identity, providing a powerful means of storytelling and social transformation.
Here's a thought I shared for the Lingueer initiative:
" In a society that often confines women to restricted roles, it's crucial that they stand up to break down these barriers. As a woman, I refuse to bow to diktats that limit my personal development and freedom of expression. Art allows us to raise our voices, let's transform our society and put an end to the injustices suffered by women and girls in Africa."
With the Speak Up Afric'Art and Voix EssentiELLES initiatives, I discovered a powerful synergy between art and activism. While Speak Up Afric'Art uses the universal language of art to challenge stereotypes and foster dialogue, Voix EssentiELLES empowers women and girls by giving them the means to actively participate in shaping the policies and decisions that affect their lives. Together, these initiatives amplify each other's impact - Voix EssentiELLES provides the substantive agenda for change, and Speak Up Afric'Art offers a creative platform for expressing and promoting that change. By integrating the goals of both initiatives, we not only address the immediate challenges facing women and girls, but also create lasting cultural change that celebrates and advances gender equality. This approach illustrates how art and advocacy can intersect to create meaningful and lasting transformations in society.
Building stronger communities means creating solid support systems that can fill in the gaps when public resources are lacking. In honor of International Women's Day and the one-year anniversary of the opening of her shelter, we highlight the remarkable efforts of Irad Gbazalé, the visionary leader and president of Femmes en Action. Under her steadfast leadership, her shelter in Agboville, Côte d'Ivoire, has become a sanctuary of hope and healing for survivors of sexual and gender-based violence.
Femme en Action has transcended the traditional notion of an NGO. Since its inception in 2023, its center has provided not only refuge but also a place of rebirth for women and girls who have faced unimaginable hardship. Irad, once a renowned voice on the local airwaves, has dedicated her life to the fight against gender-based violence, leading this charge with unprecedented determination and compassion.
Our visit to this exceptional location, alongside partners Fondation CHANEL and Fonds Mondial, highlights the importance of the Voix EssentiELLES initiative. This project highlights the vital importance of women's voices in decision-making and aims to eradicate violence against women and girls.
Each woman who arrives at the center embarks on a transformative journey, which begins with a simple but profound gesture: welcoming and listening. Here, they find more than shelter; they discover a path to healing and empowerment, structured by a comprehensive five-step process:
Beyond immediate aid, the center is committed to education and empowerment. Through literacy courses, vocational training, educational talks, baking workshops and business and community activities, women are given the tools they need to forge a new future and achieve social and economic reintegration.
In just one year, the center has transformed the lives of 106 women and girls, offering many of them a temporary home and a fresh start. The impact of Femmes en Action extends beyond its walls, supported by local authorities and serving as a model for other regions.
This visit to Agboville was more than just an observation; it was a deep immersion in a struggle that demands our collective commitment. Through the experience of Femmes en Action, we are reminded of the importance of unity in the fight against gender-based violence, a shared struggle that leads to collective victory.
Thanks to the unwavering commitment of Irad and its dedicated team, the center has become a pillar of strength for the women of Agboville. It symbolizes the power of solidarity and mutual support, inspiring us all to continue the fight for a future where every woman can live free from violence.
On International Women's Day, let's celebrate the resilience and leadership of women like Irad Gbazalé, who work tirelessly for gender equality and women's empowerment around the world.
Imagine a world where we women, the primary stakeholders in family health, are finally heard and represented at the highest levels of decision-making. That's the fight I've been leading since my election as an alternate member of the "Women, Girls and Children" Constituency Group of the Global Fund 's Country Coordinating Mechanism (CCM) in Burkina Faso.
The CCM, a crucial role but few women at the table
The CCM is a national committee that submits our country's funding requests to the Global Fund and ensures strategic monitoring of grants to fight HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria. A crucial role in which we women remain under-represented.
My active involvement in the CCM
It was to change this situation that I became involved, with the support of the Voix Essentielles program, which promotes female leadership. At the CCM, I don't just attend meetings. I'm actively involved in key processes, such as negotiations with the Global Fund's decision-making bodies.
As a member of the focal team, I'm working with my peers to acquire a new grant that will play a decisive role in strengthening our country's healthcare system and, above all, guaranteeing patients' access to care and essential medicines. It's a huge responsibility that I'm proud to take on as a young woman leader from a community-based organization. My commitment to this committee reflects my determination to bring the voice of women to bear on the strategic decisions that affect our lives.
The Voix Essentielles workshop in Abidjan, an inspiring experience
Last February, I was lucky enough to take part in a capacity-building and experience-sharing workshop organized by the Voix Essentielles initiative in Abidjan. For four days, I was nourished both humanly and intellectually by meeting other young women leaders from Senegal and Côte d'Ivoire.
One of the highlights was the high-level event on "the importance of platforms, dialogue spaces and representation in the fight against gender-based violence and for the achievement of gender equality". I had the honor of participating as a panelist to share my experience with the CCM and my vision for strengthening women's leadership in these bodies.
Bringing women's specific concerns to bear at all levels
For beyond my presence on the CCM, which I hope will be inspiring, I am above all concerned to ensure that our specific concerns and needs are taken into account at all levels. We women are at both ends of the health chain. Our voice must be taken into account if we are to accelerate the control and elimination of the pandemics being combated by the Global Fund.
My expertise in the field, my mission and my vision
We, the young girls from the community, have our place in these bodies because we know the realities on the ground. We'll be able to bring the real problems to the right place, and even propose appropriate solutions.
Representing my community with dignity, making women's voices heard at the highest level, inspiring other young girls to take on responsibilities is the mission I've set myself. It's an immense task, but one that's vital if we are to achieve universal health coverage.
Building the future of pandemic control together
Meetings like the one in Abidjan reinforce my determination. Together, we, young women leaders, are paving the way for a new generation of activists committed to making gender equality and health for all a reality. What if this is the future of the fight against major pandemics? I want to believe it. With your support, anything is possible. Together, let's make women's voices heard!
Amanda Sawadogo
General Secretary of the Association Soutien aux enfants et femmes vulnérables
Member of the Global Fund Country Coordinating Mechanism