Afrincan Women's Voices

AFRICAN WOMEN’S VOICES

LIVED EXPERIENCES, PERSPECTIVES AND CONTRIBUTIONS TO CLIMATE ACTION FROM WOMEN IN AFRICA

AFRICANWOMEN’SVOICES

FOREWORD

If we tackle gender inequalities and empower women, the world can make tremendous strides in climate response Women are the most affected by the impacts of climate change, and it is imperative that the rightful action is taken to ensure their survival. Over the years, response action has not fully integrated the differing roles between men and women, nor considered specific gender disaggregated climate impacts to measure level of impact. The lack of targeted action continues to weigh heavily on having the rightful and impact driven policies, strategies and action plans Rural women, especially the grassroots women are the hardest hit by climate change

Focus should be placed on building their capacity, enhancing their well-being and providing opportunities for their economic growth especially in the green economic sectors, enhance adaptive capacity and build resilience. Women’s empowerment and gender equality are not only a key part of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030 but are also important for the well being of women and the wider society in which they live

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 5) calls on the achievement of gender equality and empowerment for all women and girls by 2030. The Fourth World Conference on Women held in Beijing in 2005, led to an increased consideration of gender at all levels however there are still large gaps in achieving equality. The UNFCCC has also made strides in considering gender as a standalone item in its agenda. The Gender Action Plan sets out objectives and activities that aim to advance knowledge and understanding of gender responsive climate action.

The compilation of African Women Voices by the Botswana Climate Change Network intends to propel the objectives and aspirations of these instruments

This booklet is a compilation of stories from women in Africa with a passion for life and community. The women shared their journeys, hopes and dreams on community development and advancing the climate agenda It champions their work on the ground, and impacts on the most vulnerable populations.

More often than not, our champions at grassroots community level are not celebrated. We want these stories to echo all over the continent and remind everyone that every voice counts, every action is important and every life matters.

By BCCN National Coordinator, Tracy Sonny

ABOU WOME VOICE

From primary school girls advocating against littering, to women in child development and community work, this booklet showcases the role of women in climate action acros Africa.

The booklet all women experien range of issues t gender equa empowerment. linked and if the women will be improve their liv propel their abi environment. If inequalities and world will ta addressing the and creating a m

While women have gained more access to some resources – such as digital technology and financial services – over the past decade, the gaps are either unchanged or improving far too slowly in many areas, particularly for rural women.

Efficient, inclusive, resilient and sustainable systems depend on the empowerment of all women and gender equality. We encourage all stakeholders to make a commitment to join us in increasing equality

“If you take away land from women in the rural areas, you take away their livelihoods; you take away the very thing that they identify with We fight Because we have nothing else to lose ”

Melania Chiponda, land defender in Zimbabwe working with the WoMin African Gender Extractives Alliance

STEPHANIE CHINYERE UMEOBIA

EDUCATION AND WOMEN DEVELOPMENT, NIGERIA

WHO IS STEPHANIE

I am the Communication Officer of African Foc entails facilitating effective communication stra mission and initiatives across various platforms. I am dedicated to fostering engagement, promoting awareness, and empowering youth and women development initiatives throughout Nigeria and Africa at large. I want the world to know that Africa is great, despite our diversities, insecurities and global crisises affecting us, we strive each day to make ends meet We might not have the best schools or hospitals but we definitely do the best with the little we have.

YOU ARE STRONG, YOU ARE POWERFUL, YOU HAVE A VOICE . THE ROAD IS NEITHER STRAIGHT NOR SMOOTH, BUT I KNOW YOU WILL MAKE IT.

STEPHANIE’S STORY

I come from a community where we mainly survive from Agricultural produce whereby before you earn money, you will have to farm take it to the city to sell and get income We also depend on the government and other non governmental organizations to help us with fertilizer for our crops.Women empowerment is not overemphasized. Women in Northern Nigeria need to be empowered. Many talents are wasting. I noticed that women in the northern part of Nigeria hardly go to school, they are pushed into early marriages and suffering from GBV thereby developing many illnesses along the way and at a very young age. As a woman myself who understand the major Nigerian languages, I use that opportunity to sensitize and create awareness to avoid such cases and also lend a voice to make their voices heard. There is a woman I will forever respect. Mrs Jennifer Okoliko. Founder of Girls Should Thrive Initiatives. (GiST) She taught me all that I know.

NDULAMO MALUMBELA

MARKETING & COMMS, BOTSWANA

WHO IS NDULAMO

I currently work as the Marketing & Comm Development Education Centre while I complete my Msc Marketing with Consumer Psychology. I am a committee member of Women for Conservation Botswana with the active role of PR & Comms I am dedicated to ensuring climate change & environmental sustainability messaging reaches different audiences My passion lies in utilizing marketing and communication as powerful tools for change Through comprehensive research, strategic messaging, and impactful campaigns, I aim to significantly educate the public about climate change, initiate behaviour change, and advocate for environmentally friendly policies.

NDULAMO’S STORY

It’s a beautiful sight to see women take up spaces and lead. My inspiration is Koketso Mookodi (Botswana country director for the National Geographic Okavango Wilderness Project (NGOWP). I have seen a lot of community resilience, particularly with women showing remarkable resilience and adaptability in the face of climate change. They possess traditional knowledge, expertise in natural resource management, and community organizing skills. Women-led initiatives at the grassroots level have played a crucial role in building community resilience, implementing sustainable practices, and mobilizing local support networks As we take up more leadership positions, there are diverse perspectives, innovative solutions, and a collaborative approach to climate action. Women's representation and participation in leadership have proven to be crucial for shaping inclusive and effective climate policies and initiatives.

I NEED THE INDUSTRY TO OPEN UP AND WELCOME SUPPORT FROM OTHER PROFESSIONALS. AS MUCH AS SCIENTISTS, RESEARCHERS AND ACTIVISTS ARE HAVING CONVERSATIONS, IT’S IMPORTANT TO INVITE ECONOMISTS, LAWYERS, AND COMMUNICATION SPECIALISTS TO THE TABLE IN ORDER TO ACHIEVE FULL-BORE AND INFLUENCE BEHAVIOUR CHANGE.

JOHANNA HAINANA

NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT AND CLIMATE FINANCE , NAMIBIA

WHO IS JOHANNA

Growing up in the small town up in the Ongwediva, has instilled in me a strong sense have been actively involved in local initiatives from environmental sustainability to access to free education. I am currently a grants officer responsible for planning and implementing the grants geared towards creating resilience to climate change impacts for our rural communities as means of contributing to the country’s NDCs We have impacted about 10 000 rural communities towards sustainable jobs and building resilience to climate change effects. Cultural barriers play a big role in implementation of planned project activities and the vast distances that one have to travel to ensure that the benefits reaches this people.

I COME FROM A GRASSROOTS COMMUNITY, WHERE CLOSE-KNIT RELATIONSHIPS AND COLLECTIVE ACTION ARE FUNDAMENTAL.

JOHANNA’S STORY

We reside in a desert country and we have all the reasons to ensure our communities benefit from adapting to climate change The joy that comes from improving a persons way of life and making them understand their past and future is the most inspiring feeling ever. In Namibia and Africa at large, women are the most affected by climate change since they are providers and responsible for feeding the nation. It is sad that due to cultural norms, most women are seating at the back waiting for the men to make decisions on their behalf which at times do not give them a platform to be heard When I think of women who have been in climate action and community work before me, I see them as patriots that deserve recognition such as a Nobel Prize that’s given to most scientists.

JAQUELINA ROCHA MONTEIRO

PUBLIC HEALTH, CAPE VERDE

WHO IS JAQUELINA

My educational background inclu obtained in 2016. I furthered Diseases through a master's pro field of public health, I hold a c Infectious Diseases department collaborate with the National In entomology projects. Addition researcher at the Tropical Diseas

I WOULD LIKE YOU TO KNOW THAT WE ARE NOT MERE VIEWERS, THAT WE HAVE DREAMS, CAPACITY AND WILLPOWER TO MAKE A BETTER WORLD FOR US AND OUR DESCENDANTS.

JAQUELINA’S STORY

For a long time we were out of touch, without the courage to face the opposite sex because our society has always considered us inferior and our competence was only effective within the family environment The woman is the mother of all, the foundation that sustains the family Educating children is a difficult task, but extremely important for us to have a better society in the future. Cape Verdean society has been paying more attention to this issue, as many opportunities have been given with a focus on female empowerment through entrepreneurship support in order to have financial independence. We are a country in development, but we still face some basic sanitation problems, families in extreme poverty, deficiency in garbage disposal and treatment and problems of vector diseases that seasonally lead to the increase of vectors with the increase of global warming. I believe I have a lot of work ahead of me, I am just starting out, and the effects will be more evident in the future.

WAFA MISRAR

CLIMATE JUSTICE, MOROCCO

WHO IS WAFA

Dr Wafa Misrar is a distinguished expert in the field of materials and environmental chemistry, holding a Ph.D. With a profound interest in the concept of circular economy, Dr. Misrar's academic journey has been marked by significant contributions to the realm of environmental sustainability. Driven by a deep-seated passion for environmental conservation and climate action, Dr. Misrar has assumed various leadership roles within both national and continental organizations. In addition to her role as a Campaign and Policy Officer with CAN Africa, Dr Misrar serves as the Regional Representative for North Africa with the Consortium for African Youth in Agriculture and Climate Change (CAYACC).

WITNESSING THE IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE FIRSTHAND AND RECOGNIZING THE URGENT NEED FOR ACTION MOTIVATES ME TO ADVOCATE FOR POLICIES AND INITIATIVES THAT WILL SAFEGUARD OUR PLANET FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS.

WAFA’S STORY

As a woman and researcher from a developing country, one of the most notable highlights of my career is my unwavering perseverance in the face of challenges. Holding a Ph D and contributing extensively to environmental sustainability research, I have published numerous papers in high-impact journals I led impactful campaigns such as the "100% Renewables for Africa Now" and "Equity and Finance for Renewables NOW," garnering widespread support for renewable energy adoption across the continent. Women are uniquely affected by climate change as they often bear the brunt of its impacts due to socio-economic vulnerabilities. Yet, they also bring rare contributions by offering diverse perspectives, innovative solutions, and resilient leadership in climate adaptation and mitigation efforts When I think of women who have been in climate action or community work before me, I envision resilient leaders who have courageously navigated challenges to champion environmental sustainability and social justice.

AMELIA LEBATLA

PRE-SCHOOLER, BOTSWANA

WHO IS AMELIA?

Amelia is a 4 year girl from Moshupa in Botswana. Her parents describe her as a steadfast and energetic sister, cousin, daughter and students. She is good at taking the lead, even from her older brothers, Amelia will start on her homework without a reminder, she enjoys the outdoors and is always willing to lend a help on either home or garden tasks

AMELIA’S STORY

The family hosts a monthly litter picking drive in the village of Moshupa at their ward, Mogaung and the Moshupa Dam, which is popular picnic site. This started after a family outing in December 2022, Amelia was troubled by all the litter left behind, she wanted to pick it up! The family took this as an opportunity to encourage her and teach her that if she sees an injustice, she can do something about it

“

..places where girls are most likely not able to finish school, are the same places that are heavily impacted by the climate crisis. It is important that more funding is given for girls’ education and women ’ s empowerment – to give us all a lifeline.”

Vanessa , Ugandan climate activist, March 2022

VERDIANA PAUL NSONGO

ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION, TANZANIA

WHO IS VERDIANA

I was raised in the major city of Dar es Salaam, and I have dedicated myself to working on Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 13: Climate Action, with a greater emphasis on energy and forests as my thematic areas I did my bachelor's degree in Environmental Disaster Management at the University of Dodoma in Tanzania, and currently, I’m working with one of the biggest clean energy provider company with the main target of helping rural communities access sustainable energy services (Clean cookstove for women). I have my initiatives in environmental conservation. I do educate my community about environmental issues, and I normally do it through social media, organizing tree planting events, and printing clothes with an environmental message

VERDIANA’S STORY

I have been inspired by Maathai Waangari,a Kenyan social, environmental, and political activist and the first woman to win the Nobel Prize (2004) in Kenya I eagerly need to be part of the solution to the challenges and problems facing women and children as the number one victims of climate change, especially in rural areas. I believe women are the people who have a big role in taking care of the family from morning to evening and when the community is stricken by weather events. I started a branded t-shirt initiative for climate change awareness and messaging It reaches different people from different places, and the profit is used to support other environmental activities.

I EAGERLY NEED TO BE PART OF THE SOLUTION TO CHALLENGES AND PROBLEMS FACING WOMEN AND CHILDREN.

THATO MUTUMBA

RESEARCH AND CONSERVATION BOTSWANA

WHO IS THATO?

I hold a degree in Biological Sciences and Biotechnology. Conservation has always been a passion of mine especially because i grew up in a community where natural resources were respected. The older women in my community always seemed to know a plant that could help with a certain disease and this grew my desire to protect natural resourses so that the generation after mine can have access to them I am from Kasane, in the Chobe region but I currently work in Hukuntsi situated in the Kgalagadi region. I think it’s important to note that I got the opportunity to work for Kalahari research center Botswana through Woman for Conservation Botswana, an NGO which aims to create opportunities for Batswana women in the conservation sector.

ANOTHER ONE OF THE MANY PROJECTS WE HAVE IS THE PHOTOGRAPHIC TOURISM PROJECT, IN WHICH WE HAVE REVIVED TOURISM IN KD2.

THATO’S STORY

There has always been a disparity in education opportunities and employment types that women were allowed to break into You find that most woman especially the ones heading single parent families are reliant on agriculture to sustain themselves. Climate change has affected agricultural productivity and this has affected the lives of many women. Women are also needed in the conservation sector and have contributed in providing a unique perspective of how women are especially affected by climate change. This is why representation is important I am involved in ecological research where we run a lion spoor survey, we created individual IDs for a portion of the lion population with an aim to get an overall understanding of the lion demographic in the target area. We also do wild dog research, using collars to study their movements; how often they get close to or into cattle posts, and creating individuals IDs for the wild dogs in the area.

KEALEBOHA LENKA

PROJECT ASSISTANT IN CLIMATE CHANGE, LESOTHO

WHO IS KEALEBOGA?

I work at Lesotho Meteorological Services (LM passionate about addressing one of the most climate change. As an environmental advocate a dedicated myself to understanding the complex climate and finding innovative solutions to mitigate its impacts I am also a recent graduate student who studied BSc Honours in Agrometeorology at the University of the Free State.

KEALEBOGA’S STORY

Making a difference is what I find most rewarding about my field of work. This profession enables me to contribute to finding solutions and building a sustainable future because climate change is one of the most important concerns of our time. Together with partners, We have managed to raise awareness about climate change through workshops and educational programs, such as the integration of climate change into the school curriculum with the use of the Climate Change Toolkit for Teachers. The challenges that I have met are that there is a limitation of resources that the least developed countries often face. The challenges are caused by resource constraints such as financial limitations, technological gaps, and limited infrastructure There is also the issue of a lack of awareness and education, especially in hard-to-reach areas in the Highlands when I think of women who have been involved in climate action or community work before me, I am filled with admiration, gratitude, and a renewed commitment to join their ranks in addressing the urgent challenges posed by climate change.

OMVENT LUKHELO

CHILD DEVELOPMENT, ENVIRONMENTAL ACTIVIST, ZAMBIA

WHO IS OMVENT

I am a journalist by profession, Founder and Chairperson for Thandanani Centre. Thandanani Centre is a Non Governmental Organisation (NGO) founded in the Eastern province of Zambia spreading throughout the country of Zambia whose core value is looking after vulnerable, abused and orphaned children between the age of 7-18 years with a prime focus on a girl child Individually I have learnt a lot from fellow women who have stood out to go an extra mile in achieving their goals that have impacted society and the nation at large, the African region and the whole world. I have been motivated by women who have the ego to fight for a good cause and have never been intimidated but have brought up change benefiting many and the future generation, women who have come up with ideas and goals that have changed societies

OMVENT’S STORY

Thandanani Centre fights for a climate-resilient future by educating and empowering girls and women They create awareness among children about climate change through workshops and tree planting initiatives Additionally, they equip girls with knowledge and skills to become environmental advocates. Recognizing the challenges faced by vulnerable groups, the Centre provides healthcare, clothing, and educational materials to children and supports teenage mothers through their "GO BACK TO SCHOOL CAMPAIGN." The Centre emphasizes women's inclusion in decision-making for effective climate action. They encourage young women to gain knowledge, network with similar organizations, and persevere despite challenges By empowering girls and women, Thandanani Centre builds a future where communities can thrive in a changing climate.

ZANDISILE HOWE

ENVIRONMENTALIST, ESWATINE

WHO IS ZANDISILE

Zandisile Howe is a young Swazi environmentalist from the Kingdom of Eswatini. She has a Bachelors degree in Humanities majoring in Geography, Environmental Science and Planning as well as African Languages and Literature. She is a member of the Eswatini Climate Change Youth Parliament representing the Hhohho region and she is also a member of Hlumisa Eswatini Youth climate network. She was also Miss EcoTourism Eswatini 2022/23. Zandisile is an alumni of the Nairobi Summer School on Climate Justice Cohort III. Her area of work is youth empowering through climate action and advocacy.

ZANDISILE’S STORY

Seeing more young africans, especially Swazis taking up space in the global climate action space. Representing my country is always an honour and I look forward to always showing people how amazing people of the South are Challenges we often face as young people are the political will from some leaders that do not want to work with young people. Facing many rejections can often demotivate you as a young person and cut down the burning youthful energy inside you. Nevertheless we are slowly but surely making an impact to the system The time for African Youth is right now and no one can stop it! Women have always been noted as the best adapters to climate change. They are also the holders of traditional knowledge and thus they can bring some much insights to the issues we face on climate change everyday. Women in the climate space are growing everyday. But an African icon will always be Wangari Maathai

Every conversation is a seed. By sharing perspectives and solutions, together we can cultivate a healthier planet.

TAMANDANI MAZULU

GENDER JUSTICE, MALAWI

WHO IS TAMANDANI?

I am a Financial Administrator at Green Girls Platform. This Malawian female led organization is one of the organizations established to address violence, girls and issues young women face due to the impacts of climate change. Green Girls Platform is the only female led organizations that is doing our work therefore we hope to be the ones inspiring other girls and young women to follow suit Being in this field is not easy and needs patience and courage. There are only a few women who are working in this area therefore there is a need to bring in more women. Most young women and girls are vulnerable when it comes to the impacts of climate change and at the same time they are not given a seat at decision making tables when it comes to coming up with solutions of these impacts of climate change

TAMANDANI’S STORY

There is Gap in literature for the violence that young women and girls face due to the impacts of climate change Therefore, there is need for a voice to speak on behalf of these young women and girls to address these issues and at the same time take action. We work on capacity building, promoting climate justice, evidence based policy advocacy, raising awareness of sexual and reproductive health rights and providing lead. Green Girls Platform mainly works with girls and young women from local communities especially those in rural areas. So far the organization managed to reach out to girls and young women in the 3 regions of Malawi, in almost five districts and where we managed to raise awareness and introduce our work which has been carried out till date

GOITSEONE SERIBE

CLIMATE JUSTICE, BOTSWANA

WHO IS GOITSEONE?

I come from a small village, Mmankgodi in Botswana, that mostly depend on agriculture as their source of living. I was privileged enough to study Bachelors’ Degree of Arts in Political Science and Economics at the University of Botswana, which has opened me up to so many aspects of learning about the global political environment The course has intensified my insatiable appetite to the development of the current international legal, political and economic order. As a climate justice activist, it is my duty to bring about attention to negative climate issues through using my voice and mobilizing others to influence world political leaders. Being part of the Agnes Africa; Climate Governance, Diplomacy and Negotiation Leadership Program-Cohort XII has been helping with my deeper understanding of climate issues and how to bring about awareness of climate justice as a solution

GOITSEONE’S STORY

It is so rewarding to see people beginning to understand about climate justice through the awareness campaigns we hold through our organization, Nature Hertz, also showing the future generation of women that they are capable of taking space in climate action decision-making. Women are uniquely affected by climate change as they are easily left to take care of the households by their husbands, with little or no food, protection due to the catastrophic effects of climate change When women take up space on climate policy-making, there is sustainable policy decision-making, such as increased food security, reduced energy demand and greener mobility patterns. I believe in justice and that Africa has the potential to thrive economically, Ms. Bogolo Kenewendo has been an inspiration as a young Motswana woman taking bigger space in unapologetically advocating for better climate action policies.

DALITSO MVULA

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION, ZAMBIA

WHO IS DALITSO?

My area of work is environmental edu work mainly boarders around the youths in promoting environmental sustainabi and community engagement for the g vulnerable to climate change The mos mindset shit in my fellow young people like the world to know that I amplify th challenge I face is funding but that has with the best of my ability. The bigges my stories with the world using social m

THE WOMEN WHOM I DRAW INSPIRATION FROM HAVE TAUGHT ME HOW TO BE UNAPOLOGETIC FOR BEING ASSERTIVE IN MY WORK SPACE.

DALITSO’S STORY

One of the most important thing I have achieved in my area of work and professional area is being able to complete my degree which has helped me empower others with the knowledge I have attained. When I think of women who have been in climate action and community work before me, I imagine that they are heroes because they have paved way for young females like me to carry on the fight against climate change and promote climate justice for women and girls. They have taught me how to be unapologetic for being assertive in my work space 17

NOMVULA JACK

CHILDREN’S WELFARE, SOUTH AFRICA

WHO IS NOMVULA?

I am an an environmental activist and a community developer. I am very concerned about the health and well being of others taking responsibility of my neighborhood and counselling vulnerable children, GBV victims and rape victims. Furthermore, I am involved in home gardening to put food on the table and in other organisations that do gardening I am a mobiliser in my community visiting other community organisations with the interest of networking and learning from each other Waking up every morning and meeting people with the interest and intention to speak to them about what really affect us all passing over all information you got. Most important is to know that what are sharing and talking about will make a difference in their lives. If it has changed myself the way I think deficit will change them too

NOMVULA’S STORY

I come from an area with high rates of unemployment as a result crime which is at a high rate, alcohol and drug abuse is also high, hunger and overcrowded population and informal settlements Waking up every morning and meeting people with the interest and intention to speak to them about what really affect us all passing over all information you got. Most important is to know that what we are sharing and talking about will make a difference in their lives. If it has changed me and the way I think, I believe it will change them too and I am not threatened by life and circumstances, the road was paved long ago by these Heroines, they are now in the books of our history, that's what inspires me, their journey made us who we are today

NATASHA JOSAYA

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION, BOTSWANA

WHO IS NATASHA?

My name is Natasha Josaya and I am currently a graduate at the Institute of Health Sciences Lobatse of which is where l completed my studies. Environmental health is the branch of public health, that is to say: it focuses on the relationships between people and their environment; promotes human health and well-being; and fosters healthy and safe communities. Environmental health is a key part of any comprehensive public health system The field works to advance policies and programs to reduce chemical and other environmental exposures in air, water, soil and food to protect people and provide communities with healthier environments

The most fulfilling parts of this career is to ensure we provide Clean air, stable climate, adequate water, sanitation and hygiene, safe use of chemicals, protection from radiation, healthy and safe workplaces, sound agricultural practices, healthsupportive cities and built environments, and a preserved nature are all prerequisites for good health

NATASHA’S STORY

Most challenges we face as environmental health officers are chemical pollution, air pollution, climate change, disease-causing microbes, lack of access to health care, poor infrastructure, and poor water quality. One of the most important things you have achieved in your area of work and professional area is to educate local villages about the dangers and effects that may occur due to a polluted and destructed environment Coming from an environment were most illnesses are due to pollution of the environment so l wanted to be equipped with knowledge to educate my villagers and any environment around me. Vandana Shiva who was an Indian scholar, environmental activist, food sovereignty advocate, ecofeminist and anti-globalisation author inspire me. She advocated for seed freedom, or the rejection of patents on new plant lines or cultivars

HOUSEHOLD

THE ROLE OF WOMEN

African women are often the primary caregivers, managers of household resources, and providers of emotional support. Their stability is crucial for a healthy family environment. Many women contribute significantly to household income through agricultural work, small businesses, and informal markets.

COMMUNITY

Women are actively involved in community development efforts, addressing issues like education, healthcare, and sanitation. They often bridge divides and promote peaceful conflict resolution within communities.

NATIONS

WORLD

Closing the gender gap in employment can boost GDP by 20% Investing in women's skills and entrepreneurship empowers them to contribute meaningfully to the national economy. Women's leadership and participation in decision-making are crucial for achieving gender equality and social justice on a national scale.

African women are increasingly taking on leadership roles in international organizations and shaping global agendas on issues like climate change and sustainable development Women peacebuilders from Africa are contributing to conflict resolution and peace processes worldwide, offering unique perspectives and experiences. Their practices benefit communities globally in the fight against climate change and environmental degradation.

AFRICAN WOMEN’S VOICES TEAM

BOITUMELO PAULINE MARUMO

Author

Boitumelo collected the stories, consultation with the women, designed the booklet, drafted and completed all edits before publishing.

LORRAINE DUDU A KINNEAR

Proofreading

Lorraine’s role was identifying and correcting errors in grammar,, book design, formatting, and layout.

TSHEPISO MASILONYANE

Editor

Tshepiso’s role was both proofreading and content review. He refined content for clarity, flow, and impact.