The third edition of the Sub-Regional Women’s Political Academy took place from 26 to 28 August 2026 in Conakry, Republic of Guinea, under the theme “Strategic Female Leadership, Influential Communication and Emotional Intelligence.”
Organized by the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung’s (KAS) regional programme “Political Dialogue West Africa” (PDWA), the academy brought together around 20 women political leaders from the six partner countries covered by the programme: Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea, Togo, Sierra Leone and Liberia.
Facilitated by Ms. Sanda Barboura, an expert in political communication and professional trainer, the academy provided participants with a space for learning, experience-sharing and practical application. The objective was to strengthen their ability to deliver clear, credible and influential public messages while developing the interpersonal and emotional skills essential for political and public leadership roles.
The first day focused on communication, leadership posture and message structuring. Participants explored emotional intelligence, self-awareness, active listening, empathy, self-confidence and public credibility. They also learned how to identify key messages, prioritize ideas and adapt communication to different audiences. A 90-second public speaking exercise enabled them to immediately put these skills into practice.
The second day addressed public speaking, argumentation and managing disagreement. Sessions covered voice control, verbal and non-verbal communication, the construction of persuasive arguments and the responsible use of emotions in communication. Through role plays and simulations, participants responded to objections, interruptions, criticism and difficult questions, strengthening their ability to communicate effectively under pressure.
The third day was dedicated to media communication. Through media training exercises, press conference simulations and high-pressure interview scenarios, participants worked on preparing key messages, handling sensitive questions, managing stress and responding effectively to media follow-up questions. These practical exercises helped them develop valuable reflexes for public and media engagements.
Beyond the training itself, the academy encouraged networking and the exchange of experiences among women active in different areas of political and civic life across West Africa. The diversity of professional backgrounds and national contexts enriched the discussions and contributed to stronger regional connections among participants.
The programme concluded with a structured debriefing session and the development of individual action plans, enabling each participant to define concrete next steps for further growth in leadership, communication and public speaking.
Through this third edition, the Sub-Regional Women’s Political Academy contributed to strengthening the capacities of women engaged in political and public life across West Africa. By providing practical tools in leadership, influence communication and the management of complex situations, the initiative seeks to promote greater participation of women in decision-making processes and to support a credible, responsible and inclusive public discourse.