Africa Soft Power Summit 2026: Women’s Economy Focused

At the Africa Soft Power Summit 2026 held in Nairobi, discussions centered on the need to reframe Africa's female economy as a crucial growth infrastructure rather than a niche market. The panel included Rita Domin, co-founder of Audrei Silva, Rukki Ladoja, founder of Dye Lab, Wandia Gichuru, CEO of Vivo Fashion Group, Mapula Bodib, CEO of MTN South Sudan, and was moderated by Fiona Kemigisha, CEO of Khama Digit Content Hub.

Mapula Bodib highlighted that women represent approximately 47% of formal employment in Rwanda, with participation rising to nearly 80% when informal economic activities are included. She argued that current measurement systems systematically undervalue women's economic contributions, which affects capital allocation and policy design.

Rita Domin discussed the evolution of Nollywood and the importance of ownership structures for African creators. Rukki Ladoja illustrated how her company, Dye Lab, builds commercial viability within Africa's female economy by integrating local products and fostering trust among consumers.