Background
African Women in Arbitration (AWA) was established in 202З, and is a trailblazing organization dedicated to tackling the underrepresentation of African women in arbitration and ADR. As the first pan–African and international hub, the African Women in Arbitration (AWA) unites key stakeholders. AWA is devoted to providing training and mentoring programs while actively promoting themes related to Women, Business, and Africa. Additionally, AWA seeks to enhance the visibility and participation of female arbitrators, particularly in African–related arbitrations.
This initiative symbolizes hope, empowering women across the continent with crucial support and resources for their growth and dignity. AWA’s efforts play a vital role in fostering gender diversity and inclusion in international dispute resolution. Its network comprises legal professionals, arbitrators, mediators, and academics from across Africa and the diaspora, aiming to connect, support, and elevate African women in arbitration, ensuring their voices and expertise are acknowledged globally.
Vision
Dedicated to fostering a more equitable and balanced landscape, where women hold significant leadership roles, contributing to the advancement and evolution of arbitration practice.
Mission
Our mission is to promote and support the participation of women in arbitration, both as professionals and decision-makers, while also fostering diversity and inclusivity within the arbitration community
Our Values
- Inclusion
- Empowerment
- Excellence
- Collaboration
- Innovation
- Advocacy
Our Objectives
Advance the interests of female practitioners and promote women and diversity in alternative dispute resolution,
Enable women to meet for professional, cultural, and academic purposes,
Establish and maintain an international network of women involved in alternative dispute resolution in any capacity, including, arbitrator, mediator, expert, adjudicator, surveyor, facilitator, lawyer, neutral, ombudswoman or forensic consultant,
Paise awareness about the role of women and diversity in alternative dispute resolution,
Assist in the professional development of women in alternative dispute resolution,
Provide mentoring for women to advance their careers in alternative dispute resolution,
Foster communications and exchanges of information of interest to Members and other practitioners in alternative dispute resolution,
Organize meetings, conferences, training seminars and other events connected with alternative dispute resolution,
Publish information papers, notes of conferences or other research documen
Provide sponsorship, to the extent possible and under the conditions established by the Board, for women law students or young women lawyers to participate in law competitions,
Promote and publicize the activities of Women in Arbitration and its Members through social media, digital communication, and publications,
Liaise with other professional organizations to further its purpose; and conduct any other activities or initiatives in furtherance of the purpose of the Association,
Steering Committee
Edith Twinamatsiko
Executive Director
Victoria Kigen
Albert Mukasa
Ngo-Martins Okonmah
