Women Deliver 2023: A Transformative Journey of Solidarity and Inclusivity in Kigali

In a historic milestone, Women Deliver 2023 made its first appearance on African soil, gracing the picturesque city of Kigali, Rwanda, under the theme of “Solidarity, Spaces, and Solutions.”

During the 4-day conference, Kigali’s streets welcomed gender equality advocates from all corners of the world. The lively streets witnessed people of diverse identities coming together to share warm greetings, knowledge, and occasionally business cards. This sense of unity was fostered and cherished by #WD2023 throughout the entire event.

What left the strongest impression on me during the Women Deliver 2023 event was its remarkable inclusivity and diverse offerings. It embraced and catered to every feminist and gender advocate, acknowledging that each individual pursues their passions and interests in distinct ways. The event covered an extensive array of topics, ranging from research, media, and body autonomy to LGBTQIA+ rights and the climate crisis, among many others. It truly had something for everyone, ensuring that all attendees felt deeply engaged and empowered throughout the entire event.

 Beyond the knowledge-sharing sessions, the conference also emphasized self-care and well-being. The Youth Corner provided a space for relaxation and rejuvenation with activities like community yoga and writing therapy. For those grappling with imposter syndrome, the conference reassured them that they were not alone in their feelings.

During the Women Deliver 2023 Conference, the Make Way program had the opportunity to showcase its program and tools, connecting with delegates from over 160 countries, including government leaders, journalists, youth, academics, the private sector, civil society, and UN agencies. For instance, at our booth, Dr. Meseret Zelalem from the Ethiopian Ministry of Health acknowledged the alignment between the Make Way program’s objectives and the government’s goals in promoting Maternal, Child, and Adolescent Health. This recognition emphasized the significance of collaboration between the government and the Makeway program to amplify their collective impact.

In conclusion, the Women Deliver 2023 conference was a truly groundbreaking and transformative event, marking its first-ever presence in the charming city of Kigali, Rwanda, Africa. With the theme of “Solidarity, Spaces, and Solutions,” the conference showcased the immense power of inclusivity and knowledge-sharing. The presence of diverse identities and collaborative efforts with organizations like Make Way emphasized the dedication to advancing Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRHR) for individuals with intersecting identities.

This marks just the beginning, and we remain committed to doing more in the future.