In conflict-afflicted areas of the Sahel and West Africa, gender inequalities are exacerbated. Women face increased risk of gender-based violence (GBV) and limited access to essential services. Despite these challenges, women are mobilising and claiming seats in peace negotiations. In this first episode, Dr Fatima Akilu talks to us about women as agents of change in the conflict-affected areas of Nigeria and the Lake Chad basin. Dr Akilu is the Executive Director of the NEEM Foundation, a leading crisis management organisation based in Nigeria. Our host is Dr Olajumoke (Jumo) Ayandele, postdoctoral Research Fellow at New York University Centre for the study of Africa and the African Diaspora.To learn more about our work, please visit: www.oecd.org/swac