Everyday actions make the real change: Keeping Grassroots activism in focus at the Commission on the Status of Women

When we talk about gender equality and reproductive choice in Africa, the conversation must start with the people doing the work on the ground. It’s our story, we should be the authors. 

Recently, the EMPATH Alliance took the virtual stage at the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) - an annual gathering of activists and experts organised by the United Nations - side event to discuss exactly this.

Under the theme "Movement Building for Justice: Community Power Advancing Gender Equality," Giwyn’s Ijeoma Egwuatu and Sybil Nmezi shared insights on how grassroots feminist networks across Sub-Saharan Africa are driving real change.

Learn more about the Empath Alliance

As Ijeoma noted during the panel: "Movement building is not just about big moments—it’s about consistent, everyday actions. It’s about showing up, building trust, and creating spaces where people can lead and shape their own futures."

Community Resilience meets Digital Innovation 

A core focus of the discussion was how alliance members are blending traditional community organising with digital tools to expand access to vital, evidence-based care. By meeting young people where they are—online—grassroots organizers are successfully bypassing barriers.

This isn't theoretical; it is happening every day. The EMPATH Alliance uses a dedicated youth-only WhatsApp Peer-Educators Network to run campaigns, host live voice chats, and share critical information. Similarly, confidential digital hotlines like Ms. Rosy, Diva Hotline, and Aunty Khakiprovide direct, stigma-free support to young women.

A recent peer educator online event hosted by the Empath Alliance

By collaborating with network partners like We Win, the Mother and Child Initiative, and the Brighter Future for Girl Child Initiative, the Alliance is launching youth-led social media campaigns that resonate locally.

"Recognising community knowledge as expertise builds trust and ensures that solutions are relevant and culturally grounded," Sybil explained. "Solidarity strengthens resilience and ensures that movements are not isolated."

Navigating Global Shifts: A Call for Sustainable Support 

During the Q&A, an audience member asked a highly relevant question: What is the impact of changing global policies and funding withdrawals on grassroots work, particularly for women's rights organisations?

The reality is that as international funding landscapes shift, the burden falls heavily on local organisers. However, the answer to this challenge lies in community resilience and domestic sustainability. To protect reproductive rights and ensure sustainable progress, funding must reach the grassroots directly. It is not enough to simply consult local activists; we must trust them to lead.

"At the heart of this work is a simple truth: everyone deserves dignity, choice, and autonomy," Sybil urged attendees. "We must continue to centre the voices of those most affected, ensuring they are not just included, but leading the change."

Through grassroots organising, feminist leadership, youth activism, and alliances like the Empath Alliance, we are building the pathways toward a future where reproductive choice is a reality for all.