KUWAIT: The African Women Diplomats in Kuwait (AWDK) was officially launched on December 4, 2025, during a ceremony held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Farwaniya. The event was inaugurated by the Dean of the African Diplomatic Corps in Kuwait, Dr El-Anrif Said Hassane, Ambassador of the Union of Comoros. The AWDK is a new platform that brings together African women serving in various diplomatic roles in Kuwait. The network aims to enhance collaboration, professional development and cultural exchange, while strengthening Africa’s presence and partnerships with Kuwait. The initiative is aligned with the African Union’s Agenda 2063, particularly Aspiration 6, which emphasizes people-centered development and harnessing the potential of women and youth.
A structured platform such as AWDK, organizers noted, will help amplify the voice and visibility of African women diplomats, contributing to the advancement of Africa’s global narrative and highlighting their role in diplomacy and development. The group draws inspiration from similar initiatives worldwide and will include African female ambassadors, spouses of ambassadors and female diplomatic staff accredited in Kuwait.
Delivering remarks during the launch, Ambassador Haja Ishata Thomas of Sierra Leone and Chair of AWDK, welcomed dignitaries and participants. She noted that the milestone coincided with the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign, making the occasion even more meaningful. “Today is a celebration of resilience, unity in diversity and the achievements of African women in diplomacy,” she said, extending appreciation to the members whose dedication brought the initiative to fruition. Ambassador Thomas emphasized that Kuwait has consistently supported diplomacy and the empowerment of women, making it a fitting location for the formation of the group.
“Africa is a continent rich in heritage, culture and potential—an origin of great civilizations. Through this platform, we aim to foster stronger cultural exchange and promote the contributions of African women to diplomacy here in Kuwait,” she added. She expressed gratitude to Kuwait government and partners for their continued cooperation and support. Ambassador Thomas also conveyed appreciation to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the government and the people of Kuwait for encouraging an environment where women’s initiatives are respected and valued. She further thanked the Dean of the African Diplomatic Corps and fellow ambassadors for their unwavering encouragement.
In his remarks, Ambassador Hassane praised the AWDK as a powerful addition to the diplomatic community. “African women diplomats play a vital role in elevating the visibility and standing of African diplomacy in Kuwait,” he said, describing the group as a symbol of professionalism, strength, and collaboration. He added that the initiative reinforces long-standing relations between Africa and Kuwait—founded on mutual respect, friendship and shared development goals.
The AWDK functions under the patronage of the African Diplomatic Corps and seeks to establish meaningful partnerships with local institutions and international organizations committed to gender equality and women’s empowerment. Its objectives include promoting social and cultural diplomacy, supporting initiatives aligned with the African Union Agenda 2063 and relevant United Nations themes, and celebrating the achievements of African women.
Members include African women ambassadors; spouses of ambassadors and heads of mission; female diplomats working across African embassies and international organizations and spouses of African diplomats posted in Kuwait. The launch event concluded with a reaffirmation of the network’s mission to strengthen the role of African women in shaping diplomatic engagement and building cultural bridges between Africa and Kuwait.
