Women Deliver 2026 | Change calls us here
The African continent faces unique challenges in advancing SRHR and gender equality, which have been compounded by global funding withdrawal. The retreat of traditional donors has created significant gaps in national budgets, and political environments in many countries are becoming more hostile to SRHR and gender equity initiatives.
With civic spaces for advocacy shrinking, Women Deliver 2026 presents a strategic moment to reverse this trend. It offers a powerful platform for African advocates to reclaim space, demand accountability, and ensure that SRHR and gender justice remain central to global development frameworks. As these intersecting pressures mount, this convening is timely as it seeks to strengthen advocacy networks, co-create roadmap towards 2030 and beyond and defend the rights and dignity of all people, especially young women, adolescents, and marginalized groups—across Africa. At this crucial time, we can no longer afford fragmented responses.
Pathfinder Side Event
Women’s Voices, Women’s Power
Reclaiming Leadership in SRHR and Community Development
Tuesday, November 25 | 11:30 – 13:00 EAT
Room: Alamsi, 3rd Floor
This session will spotlight the transformative leadership of African women and youth in shaping SRHR policies and community development, showcasing their resilience, innovation, and advocacy in reclaiming civic space, influencing policy, and driving inclusive change across the continent.
Pathfinder International plays a vital role in this movement—supporting women-led advocacy, youth-driven storytelling, and inclusive governance platforms across Africa. Through initiatives like FemVive, Women & Co, and youth-led programs in Niger, Mozambique and Ethiopia, Pathfinder is helping reclaim civic space, rebuild feminist power, and ensure SRHR remains central to Africa’s development agenda.
Panelists
- Lilian Githuka, Global Director: Human Resources and Organizational Development, Pathfinder International
- Helen Njuguna-Mwathi, Enterprise Manager, FEMVIVE
- Mekides Berhanu Alemu, Project Manager, Roots and Wings ELIXIR
- Catherine Chacha, GBV Prevention and Response Coordinator, Women in Global Health – Kenya
Facilitators
- Ruth Ngechu, Global Director – Advocacy and Engagement, Pathfinder International
- Babirye Angel, President, African Youth and Adolescent Network East and Southern Africa (AfriYAN ESA)
