Mariama Keïta-Thiero on Gender Equity & Innovation at Yale Africa Innovation Symposium

At the Yale Africa Innovation Symposium (YAIS), where The Voice of Africa served as a media partner, Mariama Keïta-Thiero took the stage to share her insights on gender equity and innovation. As a seasoned international development practitioner, communication expert, and former diplomat for the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), she brought a wealth of experience to the discussion.

Keïta-Thiero, the founder of MK Communications, has spent over 15 years shaping narratives around global sustainable development. Her expertise lies in bridging communication and policy to address critical global issues, particularly in gender equity. At YAIS, she emphasized the importance of inclusive dialogue on gender-related challenges, particularly female genital mutilation (FGM)—a deeply rooted issue that demands community-driven and socially sensitive solutions.

One of the most striking aspects of her session was the level of engagement from a diverse audience, including men and students in pre-med and public health fields. Keïta-Thiero highlighted the significance of this participation, noting that gender equity is not solely a women’s issue but a human rights issue that requires a collective response. By fostering meaningful discussions, YAIS created a space where students could propose innovative solutions and explore how these challenges intersect with their respective fields.

Reflecting on the symposium, she praised the dynamic and solutions-driven format. Unlike many conferences that focus solely on discussions, YAIS encouraged students to actively develop ideas and strategies. Keïta-Thiero believes this approach is critical for shaping Africa’s future, as it equips young minds with the tools to address pressing societal issues.

She also emphasized the role of media in advancing gender equity. With platforms like The Voice of Africa, conversations on gender equity can reach wider audiences and drive change beyond academic and policy circles. She underscored the need for Africans to take ownership of their narratives, ensuring that topics like FGM, education, public health, and governance are not only discussed but translated into real action and policy shifts.

As the conversation concluded, Keïta-Thiero left the audience with a powerful reminder: women represent 50% of the population, and their voices must be equally represented on global platforms. Through continued dialogue, media engagement, and innovative solutions, the movement for gender equity in Africa will only grow stronger.