Ms Lydia Sebokedi from Temba, Hammanskraal, represented South Africa at the Women Achievers Conference and Awards held in Nairobi, Kenya, from 28 to 30 July 2026.
The conference, known as WACA 2026, brought together more than 500 women from across Africa. It was the second edition of the event, following the inaugural conference held in Nigeria.
WACA is a continental platform aimed at connecting women leaders, professionals, entrepreneurs and activists, while creating space for discussion on issues affecting women across Africa.
The Nairobi conference was chaired by Ms Betty Adera and included participation from several public figures, among them Honourable Gladys Boss Shollei, Member of the National Assembly of Kenya, and Honourable Harriet Chiggai, Advisor on Women’s Rights in the Executive Office of the President of Kenya.
The programme included panel discussions and presentations on mental wellness, sustainable development, women in STEM, reproductive health and other issues affecting women. Discussions also included the voices of women with disabilities and younger participants.
Ms Sebokedi, the only South African delegate at the conference, moderated a panel discussion on women’s and girls’ reproductive health. In her opening remarks, she raised concerns about access to menstrual health support and menopause-related services.
The conference ended with a gala dinner on the third day, where several women were recognised for their work. Among those honoured was Ms Pauline Sheghu, a former KBC news anchor and rally driver, who received the Breakthrough Brilliance Award.
Organisers also announced that the 2027 edition of the Women Achievers Conference and Awards will be hosted in South Africa.
