African female lawyers urge stronger legal institutions

The African Women Lawyers Association (AWLA) has called on African nations to strengthen legal institutions, expand mentorship for young female lawyers, and sustain collaborative efforts that promote justice, equality, and accountability across the continent.

The appeal was made during the recently concluded International Conference in Cotonou, Benin Republic, held from November 19 to 21.

The three-day gathering brought together senior legal practitioners, justice-sector leaders, academics, and women’s rights advocates to explore strategies for reinforcing the rule of law, promoting gender equity, and improving justice delivery in Africa.

Participants emphasised the need for greater representation of women in justice-system leadership, stronger legal protections for vulnerable populations, and deeper cross-border collaboration to advance reforms.

AWLA President Amanda Demechi-Asagba reaffirmed the association’s commitment to expanding access to justice and supporting legal empowerment initiatives for women and girls, while Founder Iddrisu lauded delegates for their dedication to shaping progressive legal reforms.

The conference also addressed recent security challenges, including the abduction of schoolgirls in Kebbi and Niger states.

International Alternate Chairman for Litigation Abiodun Kolawale (Iya Gani Fawehinmi) described the attacks as a tragic example of worsening insecurity, calling for urgent action from Nigerian authorities, the African Union, ECOWAS, the United Nations, and international partners to end such violence.

Alice Codjia-Sohouenou, President of the International Network of Women Lawyers in Benin Republic, expressed solidarity with Nigerian victims and reiterated the commitment to protecting women and girls.

AWLA Ghana Administrator Marian Karina Nanorki Darlington highlighted the importance of enforcing laws like Ghana’s Domestic Violence Act, stressing that awareness and implementation are critical to combating violence against women.

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