Thirty years ago, the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action set forth a comprehensive framework for advancing women's rights and empowerment. As we step into March 2025 a month we dedicate to African women entrepreneurs; while reflecting on the progress made so far, one can't help but wonder: how do women of diverse origins and backgrounds perceive empowerment today?

Women’s realities are as varied as the communities and cultures they come from, making it essential to amplify voices that embody resilience and innovation. This is particularly true for African diaspora female agrofood entrepreneurs, whose experiences shed light on both the challenges and triumphs of empowerment. Their stories help us understand whether the expectations of empowerment are universally applicable or if they carry nuanced meanings shaped by cultural, social, and economic contexts.

Empowered Women, Thriving Communities

African diaspora women in the agrofood sector can

serve as a powerful testament to the impact of the Beijing Declaration. Despite cultural and economic barriers, they are driving sustainable food production, preserving indigenous agricultural heritage, promoting equitable food systems, and fostering economic independence.

Operating most times within patriarchal structures, these women have not only navigated challenges but have also become catalysts for change. Their contributions are vital to achieving gender equality, food security, and sustainable development—both in their countries of residence and in their places of origin.

Celebrating Women in the Agrofood sector: A Month-Long Campaign

To kick off our 2025 program focusing on women, we are launching a celebratory gallery of women active in the agrofood sector. As part of an online campaign to raise awareness about female entrepreneurship in diaspora communities, we asked these women one fundamental question:

What does empowerment mean to you?

Their responses will be showcased in a special campaign running from March 1st to March 30th, 2025, culminating in a celebratory event on March 26th, 2025—organized by The Food Bridge vzw, in partnership with Soliris.be, Sankaa vzw, and others.

Defining Empowerment in Their Own Words

 Ms Maureen Duru, Founder of The Food Bridge vzw:
"Empowerment means having access to the resources and support I need for my work;  the freedom to actualize my dreams and be recognized for my contributions."

Ms. Maimouna Kante, Winner of the 2024 African Diaspora Agrifood Entrepreneur of the Year:
"An empowered woman is a light that illuminates the path to dignity."

Ms. Bijou Tshiunza, Founder of Microdev:
"Empowerment is the ability to strengthen the entrepreneurial potential of a group, enabling them to respond effectively to the social and economic challenges they face."

More profiles and powerful quotes from African diaspora women will be shared in the coming weeks.as we highlight their journeys, celebrate their achievements, and continue the conversation on what empowerment truly means in 2025.