International Women's Day | March 6, 2026

Corporate Council on Africa convened leaders from the diplomatic community, government, and private sector on March 6, 2026, to celebrate International Women's Day and highlight the critical role women play in strengthening U.S.–Africa economic relations. The permanent of the African Union to the United States, Ambassador Constancia Gaspar as well as Ambassador Davies Ba the former U.S Ambassador to Cote D’Ivoire emphasized that advancing women’s economic empowerment is central to inclusive growth and deeper trade partnerships, particularly as women make up a significant share of entrepreneurs and informal cross-border traders across Africa.

The discussion also highlighted opportunities for expanding U.S.–Africa trade and investment through stronger partnerships with African economies. Female Ambassadors from Mauritius, Mauritania, and Madagascar shared perspectives on strengthening economic competitiveness, attracting foreign investment, and leveraging key sectors such as energy, mining, agriculture, digital technology, and textiles to deepen commercial ties with the United States.

Across the conversation, speakers underscored the importance of inclusive economic policies, expanded access to finance, and greater digital connectivity to support women-led enterprises. The role of diaspora engagement, technology transfer, and mentorship networks was also highlighted as essential to unlocking opportunities for women entrepreneurs and strengthening long-term economic cooperation between the United States and African countries.

Participants concluded that stronger collaboration among governments, financial institutions, and the private sector will be key to advancing women’s leadership in trade and investment while building sustainable partnerships that drive shared prosperity across the U.S.–Africa economic relationship.

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