Lafarge Strengthens Commitment to Women's Empowerment & Gender Equality in Africa

• Lafarge Africa reaffirmed its commitment to gender inclusion and diversity
• The company celebrated International Women’s Day (IWD) in Lagos under the theme "Bold and Built"
• The focus was on empowering women and promoting work-life balance

Lafarge Africa, a major dealer in innovative and sustainable building solutions and cement brands, reiterated its dedication to gender inclusion, workplace diversity, and women's empowerment. This was said during the celebration of International Women's Day (IWD) in Lagos, where the theme for the day was "Bold and Built: Mastering the Art of Balance to Thrive at Work and at Home."

The event convened prestigious leaders, professionals, and executives who exchanged their experiences, discussed workplace issues, and identified means of attaining professional success while sustaining well-being. Through interactive panel discussions, thought-provoking keynote addresses, and group sessions, the event provided a platform for professional development and knowledge transfer.

Lolu Alade Akinyemi, Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Lafarge Africa, also reaffirmed the company's gender inclusion thrust, saying, "At Lafarge, we are very proud of our achievements and commitment towards gender equality. It's no cliché, with each chance we practice what we preach. We have placed specific goals around gender diversity, especially at management levels, and we keep continuing to make terrific progress to afford women equal opportunity to excel."

Dr. Omobola Johnson, The Venture Capital Firm TLCOM's Senior Partner, provided insightful views on career development and work-life balance during a fireside session. She stressed the need for keeping a long-term vision in handling responsibilities. "You can have everything, but you can't do it all simultaneously. Work-life balance is something you don't achieve daily; it's done in increments. Prioritizing is key: ask yourself, 'Will I regret doing it, or not doing it?' and let it drive your choice," she urged.

Tonye Cole, Sahara Energy Co-founder, gave a keynote address on the systemic issues women face, especially with regard to inheritance rights, workplace discrimination, and leadership roles. He emphasized the need for inclusive policies, active advocacy, and the critical role of male champions in promoting gender equality.

The program had a panel session facilitated by Olanike Olakanle, and featured key speakers such as Elenda Osima-Dokubo, Tara Fela-Durotoye, Uzoma Dozie, Adejumobi Mofe-Damijo, and Morenike Molehin.

A session on how to enhance the Green Women's Network (GWN) was facilitated by Viola Graham-Douglas, highlighting mentorship and mentoring of women in Lafarge Africa. There were also motivating testaments from female colleagues, skill acquisition workshops, a fashion show, and a spoken word performance.