Women have always played a pivotal role in the socio-economic development of Africa. As farmers, entrepreneurs, traders and innovators, they are key economic actors in the continent.

At the African Development Bank, we acknowledge the benefits of improving women's economic opportunities. It is a way to enhance women's contribution to the growth of our economies and the well-being of our communities.

I believe, strongly believe investing in women differently is essential to revitalize our economies.

It is with this commitment that, together with the founder of the New Faces and New Voices Network, Mrs. Graca Machel, I would like to welcome invitees at the African Women's Economic Summit in Nairobi.

I believe that the Summit will be instrumental in identifying the major bottlenecks and in recommending actions for the way forward. I wish all stakeholders a fruitful dialogue and deepen our commitment to promote gender equality and women's economic empowerment in Africa.

Contacts

Pénélope Pontet