Africa has long been central to the development of world and intercontinental trade as we know it; yet for centuries, it has been a major player in global economic development without being officially included in world economic forums and trade agreements. Since its decolonization in the late 20th century, African countries have worked restlessly to develop themselves, but face the continued obstacle of not being allowed to make decisions about their own economic fates. However, as the world has moved into the 21st century, African leaders have refused to be left behind economically, having signed the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Agreement to conduct international and intercontinental trade on their own terms. 

Ongoing conflict between the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Rwanda has exacerbated gender based violence cases in the DRC. The most recent ceasefire from July to August 2024 initiated peace agreements between Rwanda, DRC, and M23, a Rwanda-backed group in the Congo. However, M23 has captured the city of Goma and is pushing deeper into the DRC despite international calls for ceasefire. With more than 800,000 people already living in displacement camps in Goma, conditions worsen for women in the Congo. Permanent ceasefire must be implemented in order to provide security for women in the region.

The article challenges Western perceptions of African women and their leadership, revealing the strength, resilience, and ingenuity of women leaders across Africa. Raised with predominantly negative stereotypes about Africa, the author shares her transformation after studying "Women and Leadership in Africa." She highlights impactful examples of African women's leadership beyond formal education, such as the Murang’a County Women SACCO in Kenya, who collectively funded housing projects for students, demonstrating economic autonomy and community support. Programs like CARE Niger's Mata Masu Dubara also illustrate how women achieve economic security and support their communities through local knowledge and mutual aid. Iconic leaders like Wangarĩ Maathai, founder of the Green Belt Movement, championed environmental conservation and women’s empowerment by connecting with and mobilizing local women. The article underscores the necessity of African women's representation in decision-making, arguing that leaders like Maathai succeeded because of their relatability and deep understanding of community needs. It calls for more inclusive leadership frameworks that empower African women to shape solutions for their communities, emphasizing that representation and genuine understanding of local issues are critical for sustainable change.