Open Society Initiative for West Africa (OSIWA) is a non-profit foundation created in 2000 which supports the creation of open societies in West Africa based on:
- democracy,
- good governance,
- the rule of law,
- basic freedoms,
- and widespread civic participation.

OSIWA collaborates with advocacy groups, foundations, governments and donors to develop innovative initiatives and promote the interests of marginalized communities, such as women and youth.

OSIWA acknowledges that in Africa, the level of women’s participation in policymaking is very low and that most women remain economically dependent. Such circumstances tend to marginalize women, and slow the pace of peace processes and democratization.

In 2002, OSIWA became one of FAS’ partners to support the women from the Mano River Union.

Since 2006, OSIWA has significantly supported the “Gender is My Agenda” Campaign:
   to coordinate women’s networks and strengthen the capacity of women to advocate,
   to contribute to decision-making for peace and development processes at all levels,
   to raise awareness about the SDGEA
   and to ensure gender equality in the AU (www.osiwa.org).