The role of women in advancing Africa

The Women Advancing Africa Forum is currently in its second day, gathering influential women who have played a significant role in shaping the future of the African continent. CNBC Africa's Fifi Peters sat down with Gertrude Mongella, a former Tanzanian politician and the first President of the Pan-African Parliament, to discuss the crucial role women can play in driving Africa forward. During the interview, Mongella emphasized the historical participation of women in the fight for African independence and highlighted the need for economic empowerment to propel the continent to greater heights. She expressed disappointment in the lack of female heads of state and called for systemic changes to ensure equal opportunities for women in leadership roles. Mongella advocated for continental laws to govern elections, promoting increased female participation in both politics and business. The conversation also touched on stereotypes surrounding women's emotional intelligence, with Mongella celebrating women's ability to lead with compassion and empathy. Reflecting on her experiences, Mongella acknowledged the progress made in advancing gender equality but stressed the long road ahead towards economic liberation for African women. She envisioned a future where women face no barriers in accessing wealth and economic power solely based on their gender. Mongella's insights shed light on the importance of empowering women to drive economic progress and foster inclusive development across the African continent.