I am pleased that the Centre aims at harnessing and enhancing the leadership potential of women in leadership positions in Africa as a whole. The vision of the Centre which is to empower women and vulnerable children in achieving their full potential is of great significance to Africa as a continent, because Africa’s development is interconnected with women’s empowerment. Women’s empowerment is an important factor in accelerating Africa’s growth. I also admire your focus of supporting children, especially girls in difficult situations, because I believe the starting point for women’s empowerment in Africa should be with girls’ empowerment.