On July 30 and 31, 2026, Abidjan hosted the first edition of “Mousso Sigui,” an annual gathering dedicated to women human rights defenders in West Africa , organized by the Movement of Women Human Rights Defenders of West Africa, under the auspices of the West African Network of Human Rights Defenders (ROADDH).
Over the course of two days, this gathering provided a space for discussion, the sharing of experiences, and reflection on the challenges faced by women human rights defenders, as well as strategies for strengthening their protection and fostering solidarity among them.
Beyond the discussions, “Mousso Sigui” was also an occasion to recognize and celebrate the dedicated work of others. Two women advocates from the subregion were honored for their commitment : Ms. Asmaou Diallo, President of the Association of Victims, Parents, and Friends of September 28, 2009 (AVIPA), received the Solidarity Award, while Ms. Binta Sidibé Gascon, Vice President of the Kisal Observatory, was awarded the Resilience Award.
For the West African Network of Human Rights Defenders (ROADDH), the holding of this first edition marks a significant milestone in the regional effort to promote the protection and recognition of women human rights defenders.
ROADDH encourages the continuation of this momentum, which helps strengthen opportunities for dialogue, solidarity, and the sharing of experiences among women human rights defenders in the subregion. It extends its congratulations to the two awardees for this recognition of their commitment and thanks the organizers, the jury members, partners including OSF, as well as the institutions and diplomatic missions that contributed to the success of this first edition.
