The African and African-Descendant Women Impact Network (ADWIN) was officially launched on June 6 at the Sofitel Ivoire in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, drawing an influential gathering of dignitaries, policymakers, cultural leaders, and advocates from across the continent and the diaspora.
The high-profile event was notably graced by Her Regal Majesty, Olori Ambassador (Dr.) Temitope Enitan-Ogunwusi, Queen of the Ooni of Ife, whose keynote address and royal presence highlighted the deep cultural resonance and vision behind the initiative.
As the gathering of dignitaries, First Ladies, policymakers, and cultural icons from across Africa and the diaspora converged in Abidjan to spotlight African women’s leadership and impact, Olori Temitope’s presence brought a deeply rooted sense of cultural continuity and ancestral pride to the occasion.
Her Majesty was received with royal honors by Minister Euphrasie Yao, Presidential Advisor on Gender and Social Affairs, alongside Dr. Linda and the traditional King of the Yoruba community in Côte d’Ivoire.
The Yoruba community turned out in colorful display, offering traditional performances and tributes that reflected the enduring bonds between the diaspora and Nigerian royalty.
This heartfelt welcome was more than ceremonial—it was a celebration of shared heritage, collective identity, and the unbreakable spirit of African womanhood.
In her keynote address, Olori Temitope Enitan-Ogunwusi delivered a transformative and visionary speech that resonated deeply with attendees.
Speaking with grace, poise, and unshakable conviction, she emphasized the pivotal role of African and African-descendant women in shaping global narratives, driving community transformation, and preserving cultural identity.
“African women are not just the backbone of our societies—they are the architects of our future,” she declared. “We carry within us the wisdom of generations and the power to transform not only our homes and communities but the entire world.”
She called on African women across generations to embrace leadership with boldness, to support one another, and to rise beyond inherited limitations. Her Majesty highlighted the strength of unity across borders, traditions, and experiences—urging women to use culture as a catalyst for progress and not a barrier.
Olori Temitope’s presence at ADWIN not only reaffirmed the significance of African traditional institutions in modern advocacy but also positioned her as a leading voice in cultural diplomacy and women’s empowerment.
Her speech beautifully aligned with ADWIN’s mission—to elevate the voices and visibility of African and African-descendant women globally. Her Regal Majesty’s words and stature provided a living testament to the fusion of tradition and innovation, royalty and relevance.
Held under the high patronage of the First Lady of Côte d’Ivoire, Mrs. Dominique Ouattara, and the First Lady of Cabo Verde, Mrs. Débora Katisa Carvalho, ADWIN’s two-day launch featured high-level workshops, international panels, an exhibition on African art, and a grand closing gala.
With support from UNESCO, the Ministry of Women, Family and Children, and prominent sponsors including Orange, Sanofi, and Diambly Business Center, the event set a bold vision for a pan-African future led by empowered women.
Olori Temitope Enitan-Ogunwusi’s role at ADWIN 2025 went far beyond ceremonial. She reignited a collective pride and reminded the world that African queenship is not just a relic of the past—it is a living, breathing force for good in the present and future. Her voice carried with it the stories of generations and the vision for a new era of female-led transformation.
As ADWIN takes root across the continent and beyond, it does so with a powerful message: African women, rooted in heritage and rising in purpose, are the change the world needs.
