Media Statements

The African National Congress (ANC) extends its heartfelt congratulations to the esteemed women leaders who were recognised and honoured by the African Women Leaders Network (AWLN) at the AU Summit 2025 in Addis Ababa. These awards celebrate the remarkable contributions of pioneering women in politics, whose leadership has strengthened governance, peace, and development across the continent.

Among the distinguished honourees are Dr Monique Nsanzabagangwa, former Ethiopian President HE Zahle-Work Zewde, former Mauritian President Dr Ameenah Fakim-Gurib, former Central African Republic President Mme Catherine Samba-Panza, former Liberian President Dr Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, and South Africa’s own Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, who served as the first female Chairperson of the African Union Commission.

As a movement committed to gender equality and women’s empowerment, the ANC is particularly proud to see Dr Dlamini Zuma among those recognised. Her visionary leadership at the AU Commission, championing Agenda 2063, advancing women’s representation, and strengthening continental unity, remains an inspiration. The ANC also acknowledges the role of AWLN Co-Chairs Mme Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka and Mme Bineta Diop in advancing the women’s leadership agenda and ensuring that the voices of women remain central to Africa’s development trajectory.

The ANC reaffirms its commitment to the advancement of women in leadership and governance, as envisioned in its policies and the Freedom Charter’s call for equality. We celebrate these women as trailblazers who have shattered barriers and paved the way for future generations. Their recognition at the AU Summit is a testament to the growing influence of African women in shaping the continent’s future.

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