By Mackie M. Jalloh
A coalition of former African First Ladies, spearheaded by influential women like Fatmata Nippe Sow Momoh, widow of the late President Joseph Saidu Momoh of Sierra Leone, has launched a solidarity tour across the continent. Their mission is to advocate for the dignity, recognition, and welfare of ex-presidents and their families, who often face neglect, marginalization, and, in some cases, exile. This tour underscores the urgent need to protect the legacies of past leaders while empowering former First Ladies as active advocates for peace, stability, and equal respect in governance.
The tour, which began in Senegal, revealed startling realities: nearly all of Senegal’s former presidents and their families are residing in Morocco under self-imposed exile due to fears of marginalization. “All three former presidents of Senegal are in Morocco as a form of exile, and that is not good for the country’s peace,” remarked Mrs. Momoh. “Why is it that former presidents are not respected and taken care of by the state? This coalition is essential because it can be a voice for peace and ensure stability in Africa. Current leaders should stop the habit of bullying their predecessors.”
The coalition’s mission is multifaceted: it aims to foster solidarity among former First Ladies, empower women leaders, preserve legacies, and inspire future generations of women in public service. In Mrs. Momoh’s words, these initiatives serve a higher purpose beyond merely promoting the welfare of former leaders’ families; they are meant to establish a foundation of respect, unity, and stability across Africa, setting an example for leaders yet to come.
The coalition’s agenda is ambitious and comprehensive. In each country, they meet with influential figures and former First Ladies to exchange ideas, discuss shared challenges, and encourage a united stance on protecting the rights and dignity of former leaders and their families. They hope this collective voice will pressure current administrations to adopt policies safeguarding the welfare of ex-presidents, ensuring they receive due respect and security. This effort aims to foster not only better conditions for ex-leaders but also lasting social harmony, as political transitions become less contentious and more respectful.
In The Gambia, the coalition met with the wife of the late Dauda Jawara, and from there they traveled to Côte d’Ivoire and Nigeria. Mrs. Momoh emphasized that these encounters are essential for building a network of women who understand the emotional and societal challenges faced by former First Ladies, which often extend beyond national borders. She noted that her peers across Africa experience similar hardships, including the loss of public support, financial instability, and social isolation. By connecting with other former First Ladies, the coalition aims to strengthen its advocacy and build a unified platform that resonates throughout the continent.
Speaking to the media, Mrs. Momoh expressed the urgency of their work: “We, as women and former First Ladies, are facing challenges, and things are very difficult for us. It’s embarrassing, confusing, and stressful. Our plan is to travel across Africa, raise awareness, and bring other former wives of presidents into the fold. We’re launching this initiative in Conakry, Guinea, to defend our rights by calling on current leaders to stop mistreating former First Ladies. We need unity, as many of our hopes have been shattered over the years.”
The coalition, through this tour, is also sending a strong message against revenge politics, where current leaders often retaliate against their predecessors and their families. Mrs. Momoh condemned this practice, urging African presidents to set aside any personal grievances and instead focus on fostering a culture of respect. “Serving presidents should not use their position to exact revenge on their predecessors but should protect their rights and maintain their dignity,” she stated firmly.
As they continue their journey, these ex-First Ladies are shaping a new narrative for women in African politics. They are redefining what it means to be a public servant, emphasizing that leadership extends beyond terms in office and that the contributions of past leaders should not be forgotten or disrespected. Their stand is a reminder that the foundations of peace and stability lie in unity and mutual respect—values they hope future generations will uphold.
“We want to make it clear that enough is enough because all of us are suffering and not living a happy life. We are all under serious depression,” Mrs. Momoh declared. The coalition’s campaign is not only a fight for their rights but a broader appeal for systemic change in how African leaders are treated after leaving office. Through this solidarity tour, the coalition of ex-First Ladies aims to spark conversations, create impactful partnerships, and establish a legacy that will elevate the role of former leaders’ families in African societies.
