Across Africa, leaders and institutions continue to advance gender justice, human rights, and inclusive governance. Featuring Hajiya Saudatu Mahdi, the MacArthur Foundation, and Musu Bakoto Sawo, this spotlight highlights transformative impact across policy, philanthropy, and grassroots activism.
Woman of Impact
Hajiya Saudatu Mahdi — Nigeria
“Women need to organise, not agonise over these issues.” — Saudatu Mahdi, at a gender advocacy forum in Kaduna
Hajiya Saudatu Mahdi is a leading voice in women’s rights, gender justice, and inclusive governance in Nigeria. As the founder of the Women’s Rights Advancement and Protection Alternative, she has championed legal reforms, grassroots mobilisation, and policy advocacy to protect women and girls from violence and discrimination.
Through WRAPA, Mahdi has led interventions addressing sexual and gender-based violence, women’s political participation, and access to justice. Her advocacy has shaped national conversations around gender-responsive legislation and the inclusion of women in governance. She has also supported community-based initiatives that empower women with knowledge of their rights and access to legal support.
By bridging grassroots action with policy reform, Mahdi continues to strengthen women’s leadership and advance safer, more equitable communities across Nigeria.
Organisation of Impact
MacArthur Foundation
“We are committed to building a more just, verdant, and peaceful world.” — MacArthur Foundation mission statement
The MacArthur Foundation is a globally recognised philanthropy advancing justice, accountability, and inclusive development. Through strategic grant-making and partnerships, it supports initiatives that strengthen governance, human rights, and social equity across Africa and beyond.
In Nigeria, the foundation has funded programmes addressing anti-corruption, electoral integrity, and gender inclusion, supporting organisations such as WRAPA to expand their impact. Its investments have strengthened civil society capacity, promoted transparency, and amplified marginalised voices in governance processes.
The foundation also prioritises long-term systemic change by supporting research, media, and advocacy efforts that influence public policy. Through collaboration and sustained funding, it continues to play a critical role in advancing democratic accountability and equitable development globally.
Young Woman of Impact
Musu Bakoto Sawo — The Gambia
“We must continue to stand up for the rights of women and girls, especially against harmful traditional practices.” — Musu Bakoto Sawo, in advocacy against FGM and gender-based violence
Musu Bakoto Sawo is a feminist and human rights lawyer with over 18 years of experience advancing women’s and children’s rights in The Gambia and across Africa. As National Coordinator and a leading advocate, she has worked extensively on policy development, advocacy, and programme implementation addressing gender inequality and social justice.
Sawo has played a critical role in combating harmful practices such as female genital mutilation (FGM), while promoting women’s participation in leadership, peacebuilding, and governance. Her work spans grassroots mobilisation, capacity building, and collaboration with national and international organisations.
A recipient of global recognitions including the Commonwealth Points of Light Award, she continues to empower women and girls through education, advocacy, and leadership development, shaping a more inclusive and just society.
