The Wangarey Kagalo Association was founded in 2021 by women leaders from the Tillabéri region in southwestern Niger, following a project by the NGO Femmes, Actions et Développement (FAD). Against the backdrop of political elections, this project aimed to strengthen women’s participation in the democratic process. Inspired by this momentum, they went on to establish their own organization. Officially recognized since 2023, Wangarey Kagalo brings together more than 156 members committed to gender equality, combating violence against women, and their socio-economic empowerment. With a structured organization comprising a General Assembly, a Management Committee, and a Supervisory Board, it operates in six municipalities in the Tillabéri region to drive sustainable change at the local and regional levels.
More women in politics
Since the coup d’état of July 26, 2023, Niger has been ruled by a military regime. And women in politics remain few and far between. In 2024, Wangarey Kagalo therefore made it a central focus of her work to strengthen their presence in decision-making bodies such as the Consultative Commission, the National Assembly, and the Women, Peace, and Security Agenda. A key achievement was the advocacy led by its members to increase women’s involvement in local committees; follow-up revealed a clear increase in their integration, particularly within the Community Development Committee, the Departmental Food Supply Committee, and the Regional Mediation Committee. The association also takes great pride in strengthening cohesion among its members, fostering a rich intergenerational exchange between women and young girls.
“Our main focus is on empowering women and girls in decision-making roles.”
Ms. Soumana Safiatou, President of Wangarey Kagalo
Key Points
This year, the association made significant progress by translating United Nations Security Council Resolutions 1325 and 2250 into local languages (Zarma, Fulfulde, and Tamacheq). The broadcast of these translations on six community radio stations has greatly contributed to their dissemination and adoption by the local population. This has sparked enriching discussions, thereby strengthening the impact of these resolutions at the local level.
FOCUS ON… RESOLUTIONS 1325 AND 2250
Resolution 1325 (2000) emphasizes women’s participation in peace processes, the protection of their rights, the prevention of sexual violence, and their role in post-conflict reconstruction; while Resolution 2250 (2015) emphasizes youth engagement and promotes their education and employment to prevent radicalization. Although these resolutions are not legally binding, they guide states in their policies. Their implementation therefore depends on the states’ willingness, their capacity, and the relevant stakeholders.
Equipop's sorore support
Equipop’s support has enabled the association to strengthen its expertise in community organizing and entrepreneurship, while expanding its activities to two new municipalities. This partnership has also helped build trust and foster strong relationships with local authorities, traditional leaders, and technical services.
To be continued…
For 2025–2026, Wangarey Kagalo plans to expand its activities to new communities and strengthen its members’ skills in leadership, self-esteem, and public speaking. It also aims to establish a small tomato-preserving business. Developing income-generating activities (IGAs) is also among its priorities.