Nairobi, Kenya– The Women’s Democracy Network (WDN) brought women from throughout Africa to Nairobi, Kenya for a conference from December 7-9, 2009, focused on effective strategic planning and leadership of political parties and civil society.

The women participated in panel discussions and breakout sessions examining best practices to encourage women to participate in the political process, the importance of coalition building and how to provide leadership opportunities for newly elected women.

Guest speakers included Anita McBride, former chief of staff to First Lady Laura Bush; Christine Wilkins from the Institute for Inclusive Security (IIS); Dr. Frank Okuthe-Oyugi and Nairobi-based consultant.

McBride gave keynote remarks on working with the First Lady on initiatives in Africa and the important leadership role women play in society.  Wilkins presented on IIS’s curriculum and its coalition building efforts with women in Africa.  Okuthe-Oyugi led an interactive workshop on setting and achieving professional and organizational goals.

At the conclusion of the conference, participants discussed strategies on the future of the WDN in Africa and their home countries.  Strategies included developing WDN country chapters and working together to bring additional skills building workshops, training materials and networking opportunities to other women in their communities.