Nana Aïcha Cissé was an emblematic figure in the struggle for women’s rights in Mali, Africa, and internationally. She was a World March of Women (WMW) militant who fought relentlessly for women’s rights and for peace. In a tribute paid after her passing on August 9th, 2024, her WMW sisters and other partners in the struggle came together to remember Nana Aïcha’s story, her fundamental contributions for the transition toward peace in Mali, and her firm commitment to human rights. This article brings together memories and tributes shared in a guest book, including messages from the WMW national coordinating boards from Benin, Ivory Coast, Togo, Niger, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Senegal, Guinea, Tunisia, Algeria, Palestine, Morocco, Lebanon, Iraq, Kurdistan, Brazil, the African Women Leaders’ Network Mali [RéseaudesFemmes Leaders Africaines— AWLN/Mali], and the WMW International Committee.
“Over the past 25 years, Nana Aïcha dedicated her life to building an international movement. She was a leader and one of the founders of the World March of Women. She was one of the pillars of our movement at the international level,” Yildiz Temürtürkan, of the WMW International Secretariat, wrote. “Her voice, both smooth and deep, spoke up loudly about the feminist struggle, which she advocated and demanded since her youth. Her tenacity, not giving up the values of equality and freedom for all women, will mark the history of our movement forever,” reads a statement by the WMW Middle East and North Africa (MENA).
Addressing Nana as a brave woman, the national coordinating board in Guinea said how “tata Nana Aïcha Cissé dedicated her life to the struggle for gender equality, challenging norms and breaking barriers. Her unyielding commitment inspired generations of women to stand up and demand their rights. Whether through her activism or her commitment to the community, she knew how to raise awareness and mobilize minds. Aïcha always believed that all women deserve to be listened to, respected, and appreciated. Thanks to her efforts, many women found strength to struggle for their rights, affirm their voices, and realize their dreams. She leaves a legacy of resilience and hope.”
Stories and Moments
The WMW national coordinating board in Senegal wrote, “since she first joined the movement, Nana Aïcha Cissé was a driving force for the formulation of documents that guide the movement and the international mobilization for women’s rights. As a World March of Women pioneer, she helped structure this global movement and give it its dynamic character, connecting militant energy and strategic view to denounce sexist violence and promote gender equality.
Her unrelenting work was marked by the organization of major demonstrations and social mobilization at the local, regional, and international level. Nana Aïcha not only contributed to promote the movement, but also worked for the implementation of support networks for victims of violence and the formulation of public policies aimed at strengthening legal and social protections for women. Her commitment had significant ramifications, especially in legislation changes, community initiatives, and partnerships with international organizations.”
Nana Aïcha also played a key role in the organization of the first Nyéléni Food Sovereignty Forum in 2007 in Mali, which marked the grassroots struggle for food sovereignty around the world—its third edition will take place in Sri Lanka in September this year. Thanks to her passion and dedication, Nana inspired thousands of women around the world to fight injustice and violence against women.
“Beyond her palpable achievements, Nana Aïcha took on a spirit of solidarity and resilience that continues to inspire future generations. Her commitment to the World March of Women paved the way to important advances and reinforced the hope for a future where all women can live free from violence and with dignity,” the Senegal activists wrote.
About Nana Aïcha’s contribution to the WMW’s internationalism, Miriam Nobre, of the WMW Brazil, says she provided a powerful pan-Africanist perspective. Miriam shared a humorous story about Nana Aïcha’s welcoming character during the closing of the 3rd International Action that took place in Mali in 2010. “During the action we held in Bukavu, there was a boat crossing. It was all pretty scary, because the boat was really crowded. When we got to the other side, heavy rain started to pour down, and all of a sudden Nana Aïcha puts up an umbrella so big we all could fit under it. Maybe that’s an exaggeration, but that’s the memory I have. I think that that was the day I realized this symbolism, of how unique she was, because none of us was carrying an umbrella, and she had that in mind, to welcome us on the African continent, to make us feel at home too.”
A Foundation for Peace and Equality in Africa
The WMW sisters from Senegal also shared in the paragraphs below how “Nana Aïcha’s unfaltering commitment to peace and women’s rights left significant marks in the African sub-region. She dedicated many years of her energy and experience to the promotion of peace and social justice in contexts that were often marked by conflict and inequality. Her determination to build bridges of dialogue and promote sustainable solutions was at the center of her militant work.
“As a member of the Women’s Peace and Security Network in the ECOWAS Space [RéseauPaix et SécuritépourlesFemmes de l’Espace CEDEAO – REPSFECO] and a committed militant, Nana also played a key role in the negotiations for peace, in mediation efforts, in projects of community reconciliation, in conflict management, etc. Her efforts helped relieve tensions, empower social cohesion, and support communities affected by conflicts, especially in northern Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger.
“As a member of the national transition in Mali, her work translated as the facilitation of peace dialogues and the implementation of programs to support women and children affected by conflicts. Thanks to her groundbreaking approach and her unfailing commitment, Nana Aïcha Cissé was able to promote inclusive conflict resolution practices and illuminate voices often marginalized in peace processes. In addition to her professional achievements, she inspired generations of committed militants, researchers, and citizens. Her example of courage, compassion, and perseverance continues to motivate those who work for a peaceful and just future.”
