Women leaders from across business, policy, agriculture and entrepreneurship gathered in Nairobi on Sunday, March 8, for a high-level dialogue and dinner organised by LeadHERship Africa to mark International Women’s Day.
The event, held at the Biblical Centre on Dennis Pritt Road, brought together influential women from government, academia, media, and industry for conversations about “bridging global priorities with local realities by advancing the participation and impact of African women in decision-making and enterprise.”
Hosted by Her Excellency Ambassador Prudence Mocumi, the dialogue sought to move beyond celebration and into practical collaboration among women leaders.
“This meeting provided a platform for women to connect, initiate collaborations, share ideas and opportunities, and look at what we can do to improve the plight of women and open up opportunities for women in the marketplace,” Mocumi said.
Emphasising the importance of working together, Mocumi further shared that she envisioned a way for women to collaborate inter-regionally.
“Beyond today’s conversation, LeadHerShip Africa envisions seeing women going on trade missions together, forming business linkages, and engaging in cross-border transactions because they have common interests,” said Mocumi.
Held under the 2026 United Nations’ International Women’s Day theme “Rights. Justice. Action.”, the event focused on uniting influential women across government, business, academia, media, the arts, and science and technology.
Among the attendees was entrepreneur Everlyn Mutuko, Founder and CEO of Lyne Aero Properties Limited, who encouraged women to pursue opportunities in industries traditionally perceived as male-dominated.
“For a long time, women have been lied to that there are no opportunities for them in construction. But I can assure you that I am a witness that there are opportunities for women in this industry. So, I encourage women to rise, take the opportunity, and excel at it,” she said.
Speaking about networking and strategic connections, Jecinta Kiruthi, Founder of Intrade Africa, highlighted networks as key drivers for women’s growth in business and leadership.
“Women should be deliberate about who they meet. Connectivity can unlock many opportunities. The right connections will open a whole world for you and change the trajectory of your fate,” said Ms Kiruthi.
Additionally, Dr. Amy Kyalo, Founder of Single Parents Initiatives and Global Reach Advisory, urged women to step into leadership roles and influence societal change.
“International Women’s Day means women are called to spheres of influence. Let’s go out there and create a lasting impact,” she said.
Adding to the point of networking and highlighting the number of women in the Agricultural sector, Agricultural scientist and Africa Harvest CEO Dr Florence Wambugu, emphasised the power of collaboration, particularly in sectors where women already play a leading role.
“There is power in networking since most agricultural businesses are women-owned. There is a big need for food and agricultural products. Many African countries are importing food, and networking could help us reduce the import bill. These women are movers and shakers, and they are the ones we need to tap into,” she said.
International Women’s Day is celebrated annually across the world on March 8 and is aimed at recognising and celebrating women and the unsung work they do for society.
