Testimonies from the Nairobi 2025 Workshop

Esther Nyacke Ntah

WWO Community Manager, French-speaking Africa

As part of its annual activities, the World Women’s Observatory (WWO) of the World Union of Catholic Women’s Organisations (WUCWO) organised a workshop in Nairobi, Kenya, from September 28 to October 2, 2025, on the theme: “African Network against Violence and Discrimination towards Women: Hope in Action, Leadership for Transformation.”Some members of the WWO shared their impressions of this meeting. Let’s listen to them: 

Patrick MOLI, National Chairman of the Catholic Men Association of Kenya

« It’s was essential workshop/platform for women empowerment groth of transformation of lives. It provided a safe environment for women sharing experiences of developpement skills and gaming knowledge. Where we created networks and mentorship. It has promoted inclusivity and decision making process. It was a catalyst for positive change against GBV. »

Philomène ABENA, Mrs. EVINI, Delegate of the Ekoan Maria Association of WUCWO

« We followed the Nairobi workshop with great interest. The training modules were very rich and informative; we especially appreciated Sister Ngozi’s presentation on strengthening women’s leadership capacities. We understood that to be a good leader, one must also be a good manager and possess certain qualities and skills. Through the “Loyola Center” module, we realised that authentic communication is an essential tool for the transformational development of our communities. The presentation by the Director of CARITAS Nairobi was, for me, the highlight; it deeply impressed and inspired me regarding Caritas activities within our entities. Finally, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the organisers of this initiative. »

Monica WAMBUI MUCHANGI, Representative WUCWO of Kenya

« The meeting was an eye openen to many issues surrounding gender violence. It was interactive with competent facilitators. The story telling, presentations were very educative. We thank WUCWO for the consideration to host the Worshop. To the board, thank you very much for continued networking. We continue working together empowering our women and fight strongly gender based violence and discrimination. Now together each can achieve much. »

Beatrice TAVARES, Representative of the Mutual Aid Association of Catholic Women of Senegal

« First of all, I give thanks to God for having attended this meeting in Nairobi. I truly appreciated the exchanges, the various topics discussed, the commitment of the organisers, and the participation of the attendees. What impressed me the most was the Conversation in the Spirit, followed by the presentation of Caritas Bank, which offers microfinance services ranging from funding to health insurance. This model should be implemented wherever Caritas exists in Africa. I strongly recommend that such workshops be renewed to continue strengthening women’s leadership. »

Sister Cecilia Kudexa

« The Nairobi Workshop was under the title "African Network against Violence and Discrimination of Women : Hope in Action." The Workshop addressed very well all the aspects of the title by bringing in experts to address the topic.  Some Religious Women and Catholic Women also showcased in practical terms the work they are doing in the empowerment of women and young girls to stop Economic Violence and Discrimination.

There were many things I appreciate very much in the Nairobi Workshop. The first one was the Training in the 'Conversation in the Spirit' as a Synodal process of discerning the will of God. The Training in Women Leadership was very impactful. It brought forth the vast contribution of women in leadership and its transformative impact on society throughout history. It encouraged me and strengthened me to give the needed leadership to those I lead.

Another highlight for me at the Workshop was the involvement of the men: the Priests, the Bishops and the Men fellowship leader. They took part in the discussions and made some commitments to listen to and do their best in getting rid of violence. It is only when the men are ready to hear the voice of the women that we are getting closer to disarm violence.

The other highlight was the coming of the young women from the Kibera Slum in Nairobi to show their art works and to express how WWO has empowered them and raise their voice in society. That shows practically what great work Religious Women and the Catholic Women to eliminate Economic Violence. It is a sign of hope given to these young deprived women and a better future for their children. On the whole, the Nairobi workshop was a successful one from which I learnt a lot of good practices that can be used here in Ghana. »

Sr. Thérèse Samake, Institute of the Daughters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary (FCIM), Mali

« Taking part in this Workshop of the World Women’s Observatory was a deeply meaningful experience for me. After those held in Tanzania and Uganda, the Nairobi Workshop was truly a school of spiritual, human, and professional transformation: I left it transformed, nourished, and more confident in my mission. Several aspects particularly touched me and continue to guide my reflection and commitment: transformative leadership, Conversation in the Spirit, sharing of experiences, and the encounter with Caritas Kenya. To sum up, this Workshop was for me a space of hope and renewal. I came out of it more aware of the power of women’s leadership when it is rooted in faith, active solidarity, and mutual listening. I understood that transformation begins with oneself, is nurtured by dialogue, and is embodied in collective action. Yes, hope in action is possible: it lives in every woman who chooses to serve, to listen, and to build a fairer and more human world. »

This text has been translated with the help of Artificial Intelligence