Chido Mpemba Partners with African Union, Mercedes-Benz, and World Bank to Champion Positive Gender Norms in Africa
By Reginald Tapfumaneyi
Accra – Trailblazing African diplomat and innovative leader, Chido Mpemba, continues to redefine the diplomatic landscape with her flagship initiative, Socials with a Purpose. Partnering with the African Union, Mercedes-Benz, and the World Bank, the AU Youth Envoy recently hosted the second edition of this groundbreaking event in Accra, Ghana, to address positive gender norms in Africa.
Held at the iconic Mercedes-Benz showroom in the vibrant heart of Accra, the initiative brought together a diverse group of thought leaders, including representatives from the AfCFTA Secretariat, led by Secretary-General Wamkele Mene, and notable influencers and advocates. The event, which coincided with Africa Youth Month, International Men’s Day, and the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, served as a platform to reimagine masculinity and explore innovative solutions to gender inequality on the continent.
Mpemba emphasized the evolving discourse on masculinity, stating:
“In recent years, the global narrative around masculinity has shifted, challenging traditional notions that often highlight dominance, toughness, and emotional restraint. In Africa, this movement—referred to as ‘Afromantality’—is fostering a transformative approach to masculinity that prioritizes emotional intelligence, empathy, vulnerability, and self-expression. By breaking away from conventional norms, Afromantality encourages African men to embrace deeper, more meaningful connections, building stronger relationships with themselves and their communities.”
This fresh perspective aligns with her broader mission to champion inclusive dialogue and transformative leadership across Africa, cementing her reputation as a diplomat who merges innovation with impact.
The Socials with a Purpose initiative has received widespread acclaim for creating a safe and inclusive space for intergenerational dialogue on sensitive yet critical topics. The partnership with Mercedes-Benz and the World Bank underscores the global recognition of Mpemba’s work as a leading advocate for gender equity and youth empowerment.
The Accra edition of the initiative demonstrated her ability to convene cross-sectoral stakeholders, from policymakers to grassroots advocates, under one roof to engage in thought-provoking discussions. The event also highlighted the importance of private-sector partnerships in addressing gender issues, showcasing Mercedes-Benz as a forward-thinking brand committed to social impact.
As a rising figure on the African diplomatic stage, Mpemba’s work exemplifies how modern diplomacy can intersect with innovation, culture, and global partnerships to create lasting change. Through her initiative, she continues to inspire a new generation of African leaders to challenge societal norms and shape a more inclusive future.
