GWANA: When Women Lead the Way, the Whole Society Moves Forward

GWANA: When Women Lead the Way, the Whole Society Moves Forward

On 30 September 2025, in Niamey, the GWANA network celebrated eleven months of commitment and results. GWANA is an initiative of GWANI, a programme of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) and implemented by Swisscontact. GWANA brings together pioneering women who challenge stereotypes and create new professional opportunities for women in Niger. Their inspiring journeys and determination have made GWANA a true hub for mobilisation and social innovation. Each story matters: together, these women are transforming Nigerien society, proving that change is possible, and it starts with solidarity and leading by example.

The Power of Pioneers

At the opening of the review workshop, Emile Rudasingwa, Swisscontact's Country Director, emphasised the central role of GWANA's women:

GWANA's pioneers have made their mark in traditionally male-dominated sectors such as security, mechanics, architecture, aeronautics, sport, and IT. Their commitment inspires young girls to dream big, dare, and succeed. Videos and portraits shared in schools, training centres, and public spaces provide visible role models. For example, the video featuring Aïcha Macky & Mariama Alio has over 1,200 views, and the one with Colonel Marie Djika and security officer Faiza Abdoulaye has more than 1,900. The podcast "Breaking Invisible Walls", produced with MataPodcast, gives a voice to trailblazers like Indira and Kaltoum, circulating widely on social media and in training centres.

Turning Words into Action

During her speech, Céline Maye, Deputy Head of Swiss Cooperation, challenged the audience to move beyond symbolic gestures:

Her message called for real opportunities and access to positions of responsibility for women, so that equality becomes a lived reality. The workshop highlighted persistent barriers but also concrete solutions: formalising activities, mentoring, and actively involving men in promoting equality. Working groups proposed direct outreach to young people in schools, organising GWANA caravans in neighbourhoods, creating a digital platform and mobile app, and holding community "Gender & Professions" days. Other recommendations included launching a mentoring programme, including girls with disabilities, promoting science and the arts, and expanding activities to regions like Agadez.

Solidarity: The Key to Collective Success

Mama Keita, UN Resident Coordinator in Niger, shared her personal experience and stressed the importance of women supporting each other:

Her testimony reminds us that every individual success helps build a strong community, ready to inspire and support future generations. This solidarity is expressed through audio forums broadcast in Hausa and Zarma on over fifty community radios, where pioneers like Nafissa Harouna (petrol station attendant) and Kaltouma Oumarou (driver) share their experiences and break cultural barriers. Powerful portraits of local women, such as Marie in Maradi or Aïcha in Zinder, will be displayed in schools and public spaces to showcase female role models and show young girls that ambition has no limits.

Through authentic stories, concrete actions, and collective mobilisation, GWANA is a catalyst for lasting change in Niger. This network gives women the visibility and confidence to transform society and pave the way for a new generation ready to dare and succeed. The future of Nigerien women is being written now, powered by the strength of role models and the force of solidarity.