WIMAFRICA seeks greater economic power for African women
AI Executive Briefing
Gemini Flash AI~45s readWomen in Management Africa (WIMAFRICA) is convening a two-day global economic forum in Lagos to address the economic marginalization of African women. The event focuses on transitioning women from traditional trading roles into influential positions in manufacturing, investment, and continental trade.
Context & Background
- ✦The forum addresses the systemic lack of access to capital and infrastructure that prevents women-owned businesses from scaling, despite their significant contributions to the Nigerian and African economy.
- ✦The initiative seeks to align women entrepreneurs with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework to improve cross-border trade and supply chain integration.
Key Figures & Named Entities
•Dr. Ngozi Oyewole, Chairperson of WIMAFRICA, advocates for financial products tailored to the operational needs of women-led manufacturing and small businesses.•Dr. Sulochana Segera, Founder of WIM, notes the organization has expanded to 29 countries over 16 years to foster international business partnerships.
Outlook & Next Steps
The conference will take place at the Federal Palace Hotel, Lagos, from 10-11 November, 2026, with a focus on facilitating business partnerships, investment, and long-term economic cooperation.
Key Takeaways
AI Summary- WIMAFRICA is hosting its maiden African edition of the global economic forum in Lagos to advocate for increased access to finance, markets, and decision-making roles for women.
- Dr. Ngozi Oyewole highlighted that despite significant contributions to agriculture and manufacturing, women-owned businesses face systemic barriers including limited capital, poor infrastructure, and land ownership restrictions.
- The conference aims to leverage the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to help women transition from small-scale trading to larger roles in manufacturing and regional supply chains.
Key Facts:16 years ago: The Women in Management (WIM) organization was founded in Sri Lanka 16 years ago.10-11 November, 2026: The maiden African edition of the Women in Management global economic forum is scheduled to take place in Lagos.
Editorial Excerpt
Women in Management Africa (WIMAFRICA) is holding a conference in Lagos to seek greater economic power for African women through better access to finance.
Frequently Asked Questions About This Story
What are the primary obstacles identified by WIMAFRICA hindering women's economic advancement?
Key obstacles include limited access to finance, inadequate infrastructure, poor understanding of AfCFTA procedures, cultural restrictions, and challenges regarding land ownership.
What is the main objective of the 'Power Shift' conference in Lagos?
The conference aims to move women beyond mere participation in economic activities to positions where they can influence business decisions, trade, and the allocation of resources.
