Business
‘Initiative to enhance women innovation’
CBW Africa has launched the Women in Industrialisation and Innovation Initiative (WI³), aimed at positioning women at the forefront of Africa’s industrialisation and innovation drive.
Founder and President of CBW Africa, Dr Mrs Ngozi Oyewole, announced this at the formal launch of the initiative, also known as W-I Cubed.
She said the organisation is determined to play an active role in shaping Africa’s industrial future, with women as key drivers.
According to Oyewole, WI³ was created in response to the growing readiness of African women to lead at scale across industrial and innovation sectors.
“Today, we formally open Women in Industrialisation and Innovation Initiative (WI³) and with it, we open a new chapter in the story of African women.
“A chapter where we move boldly from potential to power, from ideas to industries, and visibility to verifiable impact.”
“In 2026, CBW Africa would not be watching Africa’s industrial future unfold. We will be shaping it. And we will do so with women firmly at the centre: not as observers, not as beneficiaries, but as drivers of industrialisation, innovation, and inclusive economic growth,” she stated.
“WI³ exists because African women are ready to build, innovate and lead at scale. This initiative is our collective answer to one bold question,” she said.
“What happens when women are intentionally positioned, properly financed, and powerfully connected? The answer is transformation.”
She outlined the five pillars guiding the initiative as inclusion, innovation, investment, impact and integration, stressing that no woman would be left behind.
“By 2026, women will be seamlessly integrated into Africa’s industrial and innovation ecosystems,” Oyewole said.
She reaffirmed CBW Africa’s commitment to empowering women across the continent.
“CBW Africa commits unequivocally to lead, convene, and catalyse opportunities that empowers women to build industries, innovate boldly, attract investment, and create lasting impact,” she said.
Describing WI³ as more than a programme, Oyewole said it represents a broader movement for change.
“But let me be clear: WI³ is not just an initiative, it is a movement, mindset and the future of African women in industrialisation and innovation,” she said.
Addressing women at the event, she added: “To every woman here today: your voice, ideas, and leadership matters, and your time is now. Let us build, innovate and industrialise Africa together.”
