The 4th NalaFem Summit is set to take place in Freetown, Sierra Leone, from July 1–2, 2025. It will focus on advancing the shift from symbolic representation to transformative political power for African women.
Under the theme “From Representation to Power: Women Leading in Crisis & Peace,” the Summit will convene 100 feminist leaders, ministers, parliamentarians, activists, and survivors. Through bold dialogues, institutional commitments, and a multigenerational exchange of ideas, participants will explore feminist strategies for governance, crisis response, and peace.
Nalafem Collective is a Pan-African platform of women politicians and activists united in their work to liberate African women and girls. Organised by the Mayor of Freetown, Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr, and convened by the NalaFem Collective, the two-day event will move beyond performative inclusion and spotlight the power of women in shaping political and peacebuilding futures.
“This is not just about women being seen, it’s about women shaping policy, leading peace and reimagining the very nature of power,” said Mayor Aki-Sawyerr, who serves as Patron of the 4th NalaFem Summit.
Over the years, NalaFem has convened over 1,000 online and in-person participants, collaborating with more than 50 speakers and 25 partners. This 2025 edition builds on a strong legacy, including the Abuja Declaration (2021), the launch of the I AM NALA Fellowship in Nairobi (2022), and the introduction of NalaFem100 in Windhoek (2024).
The Summit will feature the signing of the NalaFem Freetown Declaration and securing institutional policy pledges for gender equity. It will also include forming mentorship pairs, launching a new I AM NALA Fellowship cohort on Women in Peace & Security, and recognising outstanding women at the NalaFem Awards & Gala Dinner. High-level keynote speakers will also be in attendance. This includes UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, and Hon. Emma Theofelus.
Media professionals are encouraged to register for in-person coverage, while the public can watch on a livestream.
