By: Momodou S Gagigo
The Gambia on Thursday opened the doors to the 10th edition of the International Women Power Conference (IWPC), a two-day milestone event marking a decade of championing women’s leadership, empowerment, and cultural innovation across Africa and the world.
Held at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre and the Bakadaji Hotel, the conference has drawn hundreds of policymakers, diplomats, entrepreneurs, creatives, and activists from Nigeria, Sierra Leone, and beyond. The gathering underscores The Gambia’s growing role as a hub for gender-equality dialogue on the continent.
Day one featured high-level keynote addresses and panel discussions exploring women’s transformative contributions to governance, innovation, and humanitarian action. The evening culminated in the Global Leading Women Awards, recognizing trailblazing figures whose work continues to reshape societies.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, IWPC Africa Chairperson Lady Zainab Demba Jammeh, a prominent philanthropist and humanitarian, hailed the power of collective action: “Today’s awards are not just acknowledgments of hard work; they serve as a powerful reminder of what we can achieve when we unite our collective strength for global impact. I dedicate every award, including those received today, to our resilient fellow women whose courage inspires me every single day. Together, let’s uplift one another, live boldly, and transform our world!”
The Gambia’s First Lady, Madam Fatoumata Bah Barrow, lent her influential voice and the backing of her Fatoumata Bah Barrow Foundation (FABB) to the event. “Empowering women is empowering nations,” she declared. “I commend IWPC for ten years of impactful work and encourage all of us to join in shaping a future where every woman leads with purpose.”
Renowned Nigerian actress and women’s rights advocate Tonto Dike is among the high-profile attendees at the conference, bringing star power and passionate advocacy to the proceedings.
Day two promises a vibrant Vogue Show celebrating African fashion and cultural heritage, followed by the glamorous Phenomenal 100 Women Awards Gala Dinner – a night dedicated to honoring extraordinary achievement and sisterhood.
Over the past decade, IWPC has empowered thousands of women through mentorship, policy advocacy, and economic initiatives, cementing Africa’s reputation as a global leader in inclusive development. Organizers say this anniversary edition aims to ignite fresh conversations about women’s indispensable role in building equitable societies.
As delegates filled the conference halls with energy and ideas, one message rang clear: when women rise, entire nations rise with them. The 10th IWPC stands as both a celebration and a call to action – proof that The Gambia remains steadfast in advancing gender equality and women’s leadership on the world stage.
