Women of Action Series: Pioneers in their own right

Saying that women are vital to ending poverty couldn't be more accurate in Sub-Saharan Africa. Despite the devastating social and economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, women in Western and Central Africa have been shaking norms and shattering stereotypes.

The series "Women of Action, Stories of Change, Stories of Change" spotlights a group of women who have done just that throughout the region. In candid conversations, they talk about their journeys, passions, dream projects, and aspirations for other women.

So, what drives them? The desire to transform a continent with the positive and uplifting message: "if I can do it, so can you."

The series also exemplifies why and how the World Bank's work on women's and girls' empowerment is critical. It is primarily through the lenses of the "4 Es"; empowering women, employing women, enhancing access to reproductive health services, and educating girls.

Strengthening women's roles as leaders, entrepreneurs, consumers, and economic stakeholders will transform the African continent for the better. There is still a long way to achieving gender equality across education, health, social protection, and economic outcomes. Still, the inspirational stories of Women in Action embody a continent on the move.

Meet our Women of Action.