She votes Africa
Empowering African Women to Lead in Electoral Governance

The 'She Votes Africa' initiative, financed by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI), is a pioneering effort to strengthen women's leadership in electoral processes across Africa. Recognizing the significant barriers women face in participating in democratic governance, this initiative focuses on fostering their skills, building capacity, and amplifying their voices in decision-making roles.
Leadership Development for Women:
Through MEPA modules and tailored webinars and training of trainer’s programs, the initiative equips women with the tools and knowledge needed to navigate and overcome systemic challenges such as gender inequality, underrepresentation, and electoral violence. These programs are specifically designed to prepare women for leadership roles within electoral commissions and governance structures, enabling them to become transformative leaders in their communities.
Engaging All Stakeholders to Support Women’s Leadership:
"She Votes Africa" emphasizes the importance of engaging men, youth, and other stakeholders in understanding and supporting women’s empowerment. Specialized workshops and training sessions encourage non-women participants to advocate for gender equality, foster inclusive practices, and champion the importance of women’s participation in electoral governance. By creating allies in the fight for equality, the initiative promotes a collaborative approach to dismantling the systemic barriers that limit women’s opportunities.
Fostering a Culture of Inclusivity:
A key component of the initiative is the promotion of an inclusive culture that recognizes the value of diverse perspectives in decision-making processes. Participants from all backgrounds are trained on the societal benefits of gender parity in governance, reinforcing the idea that empowering women is not just a women’s issue but a collective responsibility. This broader engagement ensures that "She Votes Africa" contributes to lasting societal change.
Scholarships for MEPA:
A key feature of the initiative is its provision of scholarships to participate in the prestigious Master in Electoral Policy and Administration (MEPA). By prioritizing women including those from marginalized regions, the program ensures equitable access to world-class education in electoral governance. Participants also gain access to one-on-one mentorship from global experts, offering them valuable insights and practical guidance throughout their journey.
Digital Literacy and AI Integration:
Acknowledging the growing importance of technology in modern elections, "She Votes Africa" emphasizes the development of digital skills and AI knowledge through webinars on countering misinformation, and upholding electoral integrity in a digital era. This focus on technology empowers women to lead in increasingly complex electoral environments.
Networking and Collaboration:
The initiative also fosters long-term professional connections through the creation of a Pan-African Electoral Network for participants. This platform enables participants to share resources, exchange best practices, and engage in collaborative efforts across borders.
Why It Matters:
The "She Votes Africa" initiative reflects the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation’s commitment to gender equality and democratic progress in Africa. By amplifying women’s roles in electoral governance, the initiative contributes to more inclusive, transparent, and credible elections, strengthening democracy across the continent.
Contact Information
For inquiries or to learn more: mepa@santannapisa.it
Call to Action
Join us in empowering women to lead the future of electoral governance in Africa.
Apply now by filling out this form: https://forms.office.com/r/urPK0zzVGM