Our Vision
We are working for the day when African girls and women will live in dignity, are healthy, have choices and enjoy equal rights free from fear of violence.
Our Mission
We are the African women-led organisation working to end violence against women and girls. From female genital mutilation and child marriage to domestic and sexual violence, we tackle abuse and discrimination – enabling African women and girls to have the dignity, health and equality they deserve.
At FORWARD, we focus on personal stories and the bigger picture. That’s why we support affected women and girls on the ground – bringing together communities, developing skills and knowledge, and nurturing young women leaders of tomorrow. And it’s why we work strategically to challenge and support decision-makers and practitioners – conducting community research, building partnerships and creating opportunities to transform lives.
For over 35 years, FORWARD has been speaking with one voice to safeguard the rights and dignity of African women and girls, wherever they live.
Together, we’re working to create a world free from violence for all African women and girls – and we won’t stop until we get there.
Our Values
Grounded
We’re led by African women for African women. This means our roots and our hearts are in the communities we work with. They set our agenda, guide our decisions and sustain the change we create together.
Bold
We will always speak out about the issues that face African women and girls, no matter how uncomfortable some may find them. We’ve been doing it for over 35 years and we’re not about to stop now.
Nurturing
We help African women and girls see their innate strength and dignity. So they can find the courage to lead, and create the change they deserve.
Trusted
We’re open, honest and ethical in everything we do. We’re incredibly dedicated to the communities we work with – and that’s why we don’t jump on bandwagons or get distracted by short-term trends. We stay true to our people and our purpose.
Equal
We’re here to make sure the rights of African girls and women are upheld, their voices are heard and their lives valued – just like everyone else’s.
Together
We believe that lasting change has to come from within. So we don’t do top-down transformations. We work with people and partners at a local level, building on their insights and sharing our expertise. So that when we’re gone, the change lives on.
