The Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OPDAD) celebrated its 20th anniversary at a plenary conference held on Saturday, June 17, 2023 in Kinshasa. During this celebration, the first ladies took stock of the last two decades of actions carried out by the OPDAD to meet the development challenges of the African continent. Several projects were presented, including the launch of the continental campaign “Free to Shine”, aimed at stopping HIV infection in children, preventing deaths from AIDS and keeping mothers healthy in Africa. The actions of the OPDAD align with the 2063 agenda of the African Union and contribute to the achievement of the objectives assigned for the influence of Africa.
The evening was closed with the charity auction, completing the fundraising efforts organized during this event. Twelve First Ladies of Africa took part in this event as well as their partners who were great witnesses of the actions of the OPDAD, in particular the various specialized agencies of the UN and representatives of civil society.
OPDAD is committed to the most vulnerable populations in Africa, and this conference was an opportunity for Monica GEINGOS, President of the Organization and First Lady of Namibia, to encourage the First Ladies to renew their commitment by setting new challenges for OPDAD.
Congolese culture was also honored during this celebration through a visit by delegations to the OPDAD village at the Academy of Fine Arts. This celebration highlights the importance of collective action for sustainable development in Africa