SHE Powers Africa Initiative Launched at United Nations to Champion Women’s Empowerment
The 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York witnessed a significant milestone with the launch of the “SHE Powers Africa” initiative. Held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Mother of the Nation, Chairwoman of the General Women’s Union, President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, and Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation, the initiative stands out as a key effort to advance gender balance, in alignment with Global Councils for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), particularly supporting Goal 5.
Representing a strategic partnership between the United Arab Emirates and the Kingdom of Eswatini, “SHE Powers Africa” is designed to empower women and girls across the African continent, with a strong focus on digital inclusion and reinforcing women’s leadership.
The launch ceremony was attended by notable dignitaries including King Mswati III of Eswatini, Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan (Minister of State), Savannah Mazia (Minister of Information, Communications and Technology in Eswatini and Chairperson of the Global Council on SDG 5), Noura Khalifa Al Suwaidi (Secretary-General of the General Women’s Union), and Hanan Mansoor Ahli (Director of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre). Officials from participating countries and experts from international organisations were also present.
The “SHE Powers Africa” initiative specifically aims to empower women and girls in Eswatini aged 18 to 35 by providing future-ready skills in artificial intelligence, science and technology, climate innovation, and digital technologies. The initiative prioritises raising awareness on digital safety, cybersecurity, and combating gender-based online violence. Furthermore, it aspires to enhance South-South cooperation and develop a replicable, innovative model for other African countries.
Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan stated: “The initiative represents a vital step reflecting the UAE’s firm belief that empowering women means empowering society. He noted that Emirati women today proudly stand as scientists, diplomats, entrepreneurs and change-makers, with the UAE’s national experience serving as an inspiration to women worldwide.”
Noura Khalifa Al Suwaidi remarked: “The initiative is a practical translation of the vision of H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, who since the establishment of the General Women’s Union in 1975 launched the first national mechanism for women’s empowerment in the UAE, enabling women to progress from illiteracy to leadership and from local contribution to global influence.”
By championing skills development, digital inclusion, and leadership opportunities, “SHE Powers Africa” aims to pave the way for sustained progress and transformation for women across the continent and beyond.
Team V.4-EM-UAE
