FEMNET Announces New Board Members to Spearhead Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment in Africa

Nairobi, Kenya – June 27, 2025 – The African Women’s Development and Communication Network (FEMNET) proudly congratulates the newly elected Board of Directors following the successful conclusion of the FEMNET Programming Conference and General Assembly 2025, held in Nairobi from June 21–23, 2025. 

With hearts full of gratitude and renewed purpose, we celebrate the collective decision of our members in ushering in a new chapter of leadership, one grounded in shared feminist values, seasoned experience, and a deep, unwavering commitment to advancing the rights of African women and girls. 

The newly elected Board reflects FEMNET’s vibrant pan-African spirit. Each member brings a wealth of knowledge spanning feminist activism, policy advocacy, communications, governance, philanthropy, movement building, legal, and financial expertise. From the grassroots to global stages, these dynamic women and allies have long walked the talk, challenged oppressive systems, and mobilized for a just, inclusive, and gender-equal Africa. 

Following FEMNET’s constitution, board members will serve a term of three years, providing consistent and accountable leadership to guide the organization’s strategic direction. 

“We are thrilled to welcome these exceptional individuals to our board,” said Memory Kachambwa, FEMNET’s Executive Director. “Their passion, expertise, and commitment to gender equality will undoubtedly propel FEMNET forward in its quest for a more just and equitable society.” 

We are confident that this Board will steward FEMNET’s legacy with wisdom and courage, championing our feminist agenda with integrity and fierce love for our continent. As we move boldly into the Beijing+30 moment and beyond, their leadership will be instrumental in amplifying African women’s voices and shaping transformative policies that leave no one behind. 

“Stepping into this role is both a privilege and a responsibility I carry with humility and fierce determination. I am inspired by the resilience of African women and energized to build on the foundation laid by those before us. Together, we will deepen our feminist solidarity and amplify our voices until every woman and girl across Africa lives in freedom, dignity, and equality.” Carole Ageng’o, Incoming Chairperson, FEMNET Board of Directors 

The new board members are: 

1. Carole Ageng’o, Kenya – Board Chairperson
2. Angela Nguku, Kenya – Treasurer
3. Daverose Mary Musuruba Tholley, Sierra Leone – Vice Chairperson, Young Women
4. Iheoma Obibi, Nigeria/ United Kingdom – Vice Chairperson, Diaspora
5. Fatoumata Djire, Mali – Vice Chairperson, West Africa
6. Aïssa Doumara Ngatansou Marie, Cameroon – Vice Chairperson, Central Africa
7. Tshanikati Tessa Ntshalintshali, Eswatini – Vice Chairperson, Southern Africa
8. Amel Samoud Khamari, Tunisia – Vice Chairperson, Northern Africa
9. Azeb Kelemework Bihon, Ethiopia – Vice Chairperson, Eastern Africa

Outgoing Board members leave behind a strong foundation, and we honour their contributions with deep appreciation. The renewed energy also inspires us that this transition brings, one that is grounded in collective leadership, intergenerational dialogue, and the power of sisterhood. 

“It has been an honour to serve FEMNET and be part of a collective that has relentlessly pushed boundaries for gender justice across Africa. I leave this position deeply proud of what we’ve achieved together and confident in the strength of the sisterhood that will carry the vision forward.” Dr. Amany Asfour, Outgoing Chairperson, FEMNET Board of Directors. 

To our newly elected Board: Congratulations! We look forward to walking this journey together, rooted in solidarity, guided by our feminist values, and united in purpose. 

The time is now, and together, we rise. 

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