Pan African Widows

A CALL TO RISE TOGETHER FOR WIDOWS

Across Africa and around the world, millions of widows continue to face silence, exclusion, poverty, discrimination, and lack of representation in decisions that affect their lives. Yet widows are not weak voices to be forgotten, they are mothers, leaders, builders, professionals, caregivers, and agents of change.

At AWGADI – The Union of African Widows and her agenda, we believe the time has come to move widows from the margins to the centre of leadership, policy, and development.

We believe widows must not only be supported, but included in decision-making and empowered to lead the change that shapes their future.

We therefore invite:
- Widows and widows’ organisations
- Legal practitioners and human rights advocates
- Media organisations and journalists
- Financial institutions and cooperatives
- Housing and social development actors
- Educational institutions and researchers
- NGOs, CSOs, philanthropists, and development partners

to join this growing movement for Justice, Dignity and Economic Power for Widows.

The African Widows Agenda is not just events or campaign, it's a platforms for action, collaboration, innovation, and lasting transformation.

If you believe in inclusion, equity, protection, empowerment, and sustainable development, then there is a place for you in this movement.

It's "The African Perspectives" at Widows Conference London

Come join the conversation.
Come join the leadership.
Come join the change.

Together, we can build a future where widows are seen, heard, protected, empowered, and respected.

AWGADI – The Union of African Widows. Building Hope. Restoring Dignity. Advancing Inclusion.


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As we end the women month and the NGO CSW NY (NGO Committee on the Status of Women, New York) activities, we thank all of you that join our convening.

The discussion confirms the issues of widowhood especially in Africa.

Widows in Burundi face a multitude of socio-economic, legal, and cultural challenges that threaten their dignity, stability, and well-being. Despite their resilience, they remain among the most vulnerable.

They experience:
• Extreme poverty and loss of income
• Denial of inheritance and property rights
• Social exclusion, stigma, and isolation
• Barriers to education and healthcare for themselves and their children
• Lack of representation in decision-making

The Association of Responsible Widows (AVR Burundi) calls for a multi-sectoral response:
• Strengthening legal protection and enforcement of rights
• Promoting economic empowerment through cooperatives and training
• Combating stigma through community awareness and psychosocial support
• Expanding access to education, vocational training, and healthcare

Widows in Burundi possess exceptional strength. With the right support, we can build a just and inclusive society where they are respected, protected, and empowered.

The call is clear: Government, civil society, and global partners must act...

The stories are same. This is an extract from the presentation on the Challenges Faced by Widows in Burundi by Ntakirutimana Octavie, President, AVR Burundi.

Beyond legal policies, what economic, health, education and housing policies exist?

How are widows include?

Get ready for the World Widows Conference- International Widows Day 2026..
Theme: Justice, Dignity and Economic Power for Widows- the African Perspectives..

What is the African Perspectives?

Warm wishes to all our Muslim brothers and sisters on this blessed celebration.

May this special day bring peace, joy, renewed faith, and abundant blessings to you and your loved ones.