Zimbabwe to Host 7th Inter-Generational Retreat of African Women Leaders Network

Zimbabwe will host the 7th Inter-Generational Retreat of the African Women Leaders Network from September 5 to 7, 2025, at the Rainbow Towers in Harare. The retreat is a flagship initiative jointly established by the African Union and the United Nations to strengthen women’s participation in leadership, aligning with the AU’s Agenda 2063 and the UN’s Agenda 2030.

Minister of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Monica Mutsvangwa said the retreat is a significant recognition of Zimbabwe’s commitment to gender equality. She highlighted that the event offers an opportunity for the African Women Leaders Network to formally acknowledge Zimbabwe’s support for women’s leadership, demonstrated through constitutional provisions guaranteeing equal rights and opportunities for women in all spheres.

The retreat will focus on intergenerational dialogue between experienced women leaders and young women. Participants will share experiences and strategies for advancing gender equality and women’s empowerment. The gathering will also strengthen networks among African women leaders to enhance collaboration on policy advocacy, governance, and peacebuilding.

Minister Mutsvangwa noted that the retreat will result in actionable plans to address emerging challenges affecting women’s leadership across Africa. She added that the event will further enhance Zimbabwe’s visibility as a champion of gender equality, positioning the country as a thought leader on the continent.

The retreat will provide Zimbabwe with an opportunity to showcase its progress on gender equality, attracting potential partnerships and investments from international development organisations. The event is also expected to boost local economic activity, particularly in the tourism and hospitality sectors.

According to the Ministry, the meeting will strengthen Zimbabwe’s standing in global gender advocacy circles and reinforce its role as a key player in Africa’s development agenda.

The 7th Inter-Generational Retreat of the African Women Leaders Network will serve as a platform for dialogue, collaboration, and policy action, highlighting Zimbabwe’s commitment to empowering women and advancing leadership across the continent.