AFIDFF Joins Global Observance of International Day for Women and Girls of African Descent in Abuja

The African International Documentary Festival Foundation (AFIDFF), in proud partnership with the Integrated Women and Youth Empowerment Centre (IWAYEC), joined global voices to commemorate the International Day for Women and Girls of African Descent.

The event was held at the National Centre for Women Development, Abuja, and brought together an inspiring community of leaders, advocates, and storytellers in a powerful celebration of African identity, resilience, and womanhood.

Themed "Rising Together: Women and Girls of African Descent Leading with Strength," the event highlighted the ongoing efforts to amplify African voices and empower women and girls across the continent and diaspora.

A major highlight of the occasion was the launch of two impactful books authored by the founder of IWAYEC, Dr. Esther Mangzha:

• The Career Woman's Journey: Amidst the Hustle and Bustle

• The Journey Through History and Culture (Margi)

These works were praised as vital contributions to African literature, culture, and women’s empowerment, capturing the resilience of African women and the importance of preserving our cultural identity. The event was graced by a distinguished array of guests, including H.E. Bala James Ngilari, former Governor of Adamawa State; Lydia Shehu Jafiya, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Finance; Zubaida Umar, Director General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA); Dr. Chukwuemeka Onyimadu, representing UN Women; Dr. Asabe Vilita Bashir, Director General of the National Centre for Women Development; Kaltume Bulama FSNA, Artistic Director of the National Troupe of Nigeria; and Professor Nana Tanko, who served as the book reviewer.

 Their presence added depth, credibility, and inspiration to the celebration, reinforcing the collective commitment to women’s empowerment and cultural preservation.

In her goodwill message, the Director General of AFIDFF, Malame Mangzha, delivered an address, highlighting the importance of documenting and preserving the stories of African women and girls.

“This day is not only a celebration, it is a powerful moment of reflection, recognition, and reaffirmation of the enduring strength, beauty, resilience, and contributions of African women and girls across the world... We believe that the stories of African women and girls, especially those who have remained unheard, must be documented, celebrated, and passed down to future generations.” - Malame Mangzha, Director General, AFIDFF

She further praised the long-standing partnership between AFIDFF and IWAYEC, which continues to support women’s empowerment, youth development, and cultural preservation through storytelling and media advocacy.

AFIDFF also used the occasion to reaffirm its commitment to heritage documentation, youth engagement, and creative education through its platforms such as African Voices and the Social Entrepreneur Network for Africa (SENA). The foundation recently partnered with Google Arts & Culture to launch a digital heritage collection and virtual reality experience featuring significant heritage sites across Nigeria.

As a cultural and development advocate, Malame Mangzha continues to lead AFIDFF in championing narratives that reflect the strength and identity of African communities.

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