It is with a heart full of gratitude and a renewed sense of purpose that I reflect on the profound success of our side event, “SHE MOVES THE FUTURE OF AFRICA: Leading Inclusive Mobility Solutions from the Ground Up in African Cities,” held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
The energy in the Assembly Room was a testament to a powerful truth: Africa is not waiting for the future of urban mobility; it is building it today, with innovation, resilience, and unparalleled leadership.
My deepest appreciation goes to His Excellency Fahd Al Rasheed, whose gracious presence and active participation honored us all.
Your engagement sent a strong signal of partnership and shared commitment to reimagining cities globally.
To the visionary Government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the conference organisers, thank you for the esteemed platform.
Your support enabled a crucial African narrative, driven by local expertise, to resonate on a global stage.
To my fellow Mayors and leaders – your insights were the cornerstone of our discussion.
A special salute to our exceptional panelists: Hon. Yvonne Aki-Sawyer Mayor of Freetown, Hon. Adama Sarr Mayor of Keur Massar, Hon. Nasi Moya Mayor of Tshwane, Hon. Yvonne Eyidi Mayor of Nkongsamba, Hon. Johra Said Mayor of Nakuru, Hon. Josephine Solange Mayor of Nkolmettet, Hon. Dada Morero Executive Mayor Johannesburg, Hon. Ahmad Shafee Ismail Mayor of Marracuene and Mayor Homotallar Mayor of Daglar.
Each of you brilliantly illuminated a critical pillar of our mobility ecosystem, proving that the solutions for Africa are being engineered by those who know its rhythms best.
To the Former President of Costa Rica– H.E. Carlos Alvarado , John Rossant the CEO and Founder of Co-Motion, and every African Mayor, Minister, entrepreneur, and partner in attendance, your presence fueled a dialogue of action, not just analysis.
I must extend particular thanks to our moderator, Mr. Basiru Jaye, whose professional stewardship ensured our conversation was both insightful and elegantly focused.
To Dr. Juliet Sale, the brilliant architect behind this event’s design – thank you for ensuring our ‘Africanized’ solutions were articulated with such clarity and power.
The “Call to Action” is now alive. We have collectively asserted that investing in women-led mobility is not merely an option but a strategic imperative for equitable, resilient, and thriving African cities.
To the people of Banjul, your strength and spirit are my constant inspiration. As promised, a surprise awaits – stay tuned!
This event was a milestone, but it is only the beginning. The journey to reshape our cities, with women at the helm of inclusive mobility, continues with relentless momentum.
Onward, together as always.
