In an address at the Young African Women Congress, held in Abuja, Nigeria, Madam Maata Opare, a distinguished corporate lawyer and business leader, highlighted the critical need for women's participation in decision-making processes and financial empowerment.
Speaking to a diverse audience of young women leaders, Opare emphasized that to advance as a continent, Africa must integrate women at every level of influence, from grassroots organizations to corporate and political spaces. "Women must be part of the decision-making infrastructure of our society," Opare stated.
She noted that across communities, unions, politics, and educational institutions, women often lack sufficient representation, which has broader implications on policy and organizational culture.
She explained that when decision-making spaces are dominated by men, unconscious bias can impede diversity and equity. "If every time we go to an interview, the panel is the same four men, generally, the unconscious bias will creep in.