The Gabonese government has announced that Nina Alida Abouna has been designated as the Africa ambassador for the DIGIeWOMEN Awards (DIWAA) for the period 2026-2028. This initiative aims to recognize women who are creating digital solutions, running innovative businesses, and generating opportunities for other female entrepreneurs. The DIWAA platform focuses on promoting women engaged in digital technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship in Africa.

The announcement was made by the organizing committee of DIWAA, which seeks to distinguish women who are making significant contributions to the digital economy. Nina Alida Abouna will be officially presented to the public on December 19, 2026, at the Cité de la démocratie in Libreville, during the fourth edition of DIWAA. The ceremony will also feature the presentation of trophies to the African Digital Woman of the Year and a special guest, an international figure in female leadership.

Through this appointment, the organizers aim to strengthen links between women active in digital technology, institutions, and economic actors, while promoting the visibility of female initiatives at the continental level. Nina Alida Abouna has extensive experience in the banking, investment promotion, and public administration sectors. She previously served as the Director-General of the Gabonese National Agency for Investment Promotion (ANPI-Gabon) from 2015 to 2019.

During her tenure at ANPI-Gabon, Abouna facilitated the procedures of investors and entrepreneurs. She also contributed to the promotion of female entrepreneurship, particularly through initiatives related to the Women Business Center. Her subsequent roles included positions at the General Secretariat of the Ministry of Tourism and the Prime Minister's office, focusing on investment and economic development.

In 2025, Abouna served as the Commissioner-General for Exhibitions, leading Gabon's participation in the Osaka Universal Exposition in Japan. The Gabonese pavilion won the Golden Prize in the "Saving Lives" category. The organizers believe that her experience in investment promotion, entrepreneurship, and partnership development will help achieve DIWAA's ambitions at the African level.

The appointment of Nina Alida Abouna is expected to foster connections between talented women in digital technology and economic institutions. Her role will also promote the growth of female-led initiatives across the continent. The DIWAA platform provides a unique opportunity for women to showcase their innovative projects and entrepreneurial spirit.

The fourth edition of DIWAA will bring together prominent figures in African digital technology and entrepreneurship. The event aims to celebrate women's achievements in the digital economy and provide a platform for networking and collaboration. Nina Alida Abouna's appointment as Africa ambassador for DIWAA reflects her remarkable experience and commitment to promoting women's empowerment in digital technology.

Key points

  • Nina Alida Abouna has been appointed as the Africa ambassador for DIWAA for 2026-2028.
  • The appointment aims to promote women's empowerment in digital technology and entrepreneurship across Africa.
  • The fourth edition of DIWAA will take place on December 19, 2026, in Libreville, Gabon.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.