Call for Abstracts
The African Women’s Studies Centre (AWSC), University of Nairobi, invites abstract submissions for paper presentations, panel discussions, case studies, and creative contributions addressing the main theme and sub-themes of the 8th Annual Conference on the Status of African Women.
Theme: Socio-Economic and Political Sustainability and Livelihoods of Women
Venue: Blended – University of Nairobi Towers, 4th Floor, MLT 401 and Online
Host: African Women’s Studies Centre (AWSC), University of Nairobi
Concept Note The African Women’s Studies Centre (AWSC) at the University of Nairobi convenes the Annual Conference on the Status of African Women to provide a platform for critical reflection, research dissemination, policy dialogue, and advocacy on issues affecting African women. Now in its 8th year, the 2025 conference comes at a pivotal time, as the continent continues to grapple with intersecting challenges of climate change, economic instability, governance crises, and deepening social inequalities—all of which disproportionately impact women. This year’s theme, “Socio-Economic and Political Sustainability and Livelihoods of Women,” seeks to amplify African women’s voices and knowledge in shaping sustainable futures. The conference will examine the gendered dimensions of sustainability and explore transformative strategies for empowering women through policy, innovation, leadership, and community resilience.
Objectives
- To provide a platform for scholars, practitioners, policymakers, and community leaders to engage with critical issues affecting women’s livelihoods and sustainability in Africa.
- To document and disseminate gender-responsive research, practices, and policies that support women’s socio-economic and political empowerment.
- To foster regional collaboration and knowledge exchange that promotes sustainable and inclusive development.
- To influence public policy and development agendas through evidence-based dialogue and advocacy.
- To explore the role of emerging technologies, particularly Artificial Intelligence and digital innovation, in advancing women’s socio-economic and political empowerment across Africa.
Sub-Themes Participants are invited to engage with the theme through the following sub-themes:
- Women, Climate Adaptation, Renewable Energy and Community Resilience
- Women’s Access to Opportunities and Resources
- Women’s Health, Care Work, and Community Wellbeing
- Women’s Leadership and Governance in Africa
- Women’s Security and Community Cohesion
- Women, Land Rights, Food Security and Sustainable Agriculture
- Women, Artificial Intelligence, Digital Innovation, and the Future of Work
Submission Guidelines
- Abstracts should be 250–300 words, clearly outlining the topic, methodology (if applicable), key arguments, and relevance to the conference theme or sub-themes.
- Include a title, author’s name(s), institutional affiliation, and email address.
- All submissions should be in English.
- Submit abstracts via email to: awsc-conf@uonbi.ac.ke (subject: 8th Annual Conference Abstract Submission).
- Deadline for submission: 31st July 2025
- Notification of acceptance: On a rolling basis
- Full paper submission (for accepted abstracts): 26th September 2025
Target Participants
- Academics and researchers
- Policy makers and government representatives
- Civil society organizations
- Community leaders and grassroots activists
- Development practitioners
- Students and youth advocates
CONFERENCE DATE 22–23 October 2025
Registration Fees
| UoN Undergraduate Students: | Ksh 600 |
| UoN Staff: | Ksh 1,000 |
| Students from East Africa Community: | Ksh 2,000 |
| International Students: | Ksh 3,000 |
| East African Community: | Ksh 3,000 |
| International participants: | Ksh 5,000 or $50 |
For inquiries and submission details, please contact awsc-conf@uonbi.ac.ke or cmgakinyi@uonbi.ac.ke.