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About Africa's Women's Day:

Africa’s Women's Day is celebrated annually across the continent on July 31st on the Africa Union Calendar, stands as a profound milestone dedicated to recognizing and affirming the critical role of women's collective action in achieving liberation from colonialism and apartheid. This observance not only commemorates the significant contributions of African Women in these historic struggles but also underscores their ongoing efforts to advance the social and economic status of women throughout Africa. Additionally, it marks the anniversary of the Pan African Women’s Organization (PAWO), a specialized agency of the African Union committed to promoting gender equality and women's empowerment.

The inception of Africa's Women's Day can be traced back to the historic first conference of the Pan-African Women's Organization (PAWO) held in July 1962 in the city of Dar es Salaam, Tanganyika (now known as Tanzania). It was during this landmark event that the proclamation to honor and commemorate this day was resoundingly made.

Africa's Women's Day represents a multifaceted opportunity at the national, continental, and global levels to reflect upon and reaffirm the profound contributions of African women towards the formation of a cohesive Pan-African identity. United by shared values, objectives, and a collective vision for the future, African women stand as key architects in the pursuit of Africa's inclusive growth and sustainable development agenda, anchored in the African Union's visionary pursuit of an integrated, prosperous, and peaceful Africa.

PAWO, an esteemed organization that serves as a representative body of women across the African continent, maintains a formidable presence in all 55 Member States of the African Union, bolstered by the establishment of five regional offices. At the core of its objectives lie steadfast commitments, including the relentless endeavor to facilitate effective and responsible participation of African women in the realms of socio-economic and cultural development. PAWO persistently advocates for women's representation at decision-making echelons while ardently championing the cause of women's empowerment and the eradication of all forms of gender-based discrimination.

Throughout its existence, PAWO has seen its headquarters situated in four host countries: Mali (1962-1968), Algeria (1968-1986), and Angola (1986-2008). Since 2008, the organization has found its permanent home in the vibrant city of Pretoria, South Africa, serving as a steadfast hub for its impactful initiatives.

We encourage all African Women, home and abroad, to keep creating awareness of Africa’s Women's Day. Let us collectively recognize and honor the invaluable contributions of African women, celebrating our resilience, fortitude, and determination as catalysts for positive change across the African continent and beyond.