By Collins Yakubu-Hammer
The CBW Africa has launched the Women in Industrialisation and Innovation Initiative (WI³) to ensure that women take the front seat and contribute to the continent’s journey of industrialisation.
The Founder and Continental President of CBW Africa, Mrs Ngozi Oyewole, made this known at the formal launch of WI³ (W-I Cubed)
This is contained in a statement issued by Oyewole on Monday in Abuja.
“Today, we formally open Women in Industrialisation and Innovation Initiative (WI³) and with it, we open a new chapter in the story of African women.
“A chapter where we move boldly from potential to power, from ideas to industries, and visibility to verifiable impact,” she said.
She explained that in 2026, CBW Africa would not be watching Africa’s industrial future unfold.
“We will be shaping it. And we will do so with women firmly at the centre: not as observers, not as beneficiaries, but as drivers of industrialisation, innovation, and inclusive economic growth.
“WI³ exists because African women are ready to build, innovate and lead at scale. This initiative is our collective answer to one bold question.
“What happens when women are intentionally positioned, properly financed, and powerfully connected?
The answer is transformation,” she said.
She explained that the Five Pillars/ Promise of WI³ include Inclusion, that no woman is left behind.
Other pillars are innovation, investment, impact and integration.
“By 2026, women will be seamlessly integrated into Africa’s industrial and innovation ecosystems.
“CBW Africa commits unequivocally to lead, convene, and catalyse opportunities that empowers women to build industries, innovate boldly, attract investment, and create lasting impact.
“But let me be clear: WI³ is not just an initiative, it is a movement, mindset and the future of African women in industrialisation and innovation.
“To every woman, your voice, ideas, and leadership matters, and your time is now. Let us build, innovate and industrialise Africa together” Oyewole said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Ekemini Ladejobi
