On March 5, in anticipation of International Women’s Day, ACWA Power hosted the Women’s Power 2025 Forum, marking the second consecutive year of this impactful event. The forum highlighted the resilience and leadership of women across generations, bringing together influential voices to discuss the role of women in traditionally male-dominated sectors, particularly renewable energy.
Uzbekistan made significant progress in advancing gender equality in recent years. In 2024 alone, more than 30,000 young women received free master’s degrees, and women now make up over 40% of the Legislative Chamber.
The country also became the first in the region to pass a law against domestic violence, reflecting a broader commitment to women’s empowerment. Against this backdrop, the Women’s Power Forum provided a platform to examine the challenges that remain and the steps needed to create a more inclusive future.
From 1910 to 2025: a fight that continues
The keynote speech was delivered by Nozima Davletova, Head of the Division within the Department for Information and Analytical Support of Foreign Policy and Expansion of Foreign Economic Cooperation of the Presidential Administration. Her speech was a powerful call for unity, mutual support and an unyielding commitment to advancing women’s roles in society and business.
«Today, we celebrate March 8th, a day that began in 1910 as a fight for women’s rights — the right to vote, to work, to be educated, and to have a voice in society,» Davletova said, emphasising how far women’s rights have come over the past century.
She painted a stark picture of the past, recalling how, in some hospitals, 60% of mothers did not survive childbirth, and many girls were denied education. Moreover, Nozimakhon shared a personal perspective, reflecting on her grandmother’s and mother’s experiences.
«My grandmother, born in 1915, was married at 16 and had 10 children. My mother married at 18, but she pursued higher education. She raised me with one will in mind — I was born equal. She used to say: ‘If you do not study, you will become the last leg of the dog.'»
Davletova’s speech underscored the remarkable progress women have made globally.
«Today, we know that violence is a crime, child marriage is a crime, and discrimination is not normal. Think about this — we are living in the best time for women in human history.»
From the struggles of the early 20th century to the evolving landscape of 2025, women continue to push for greater representation, economic empowerment and societal recognition. The advancements in education, workplace rights, and legal protections are milestones, but they do not mark the end of the journey.
Why women leaders still struggle for recognition
Despite these advancements, challenges persist.
«In 1995, there were zero women CEOs among the top 500 companies. By 2023, there were 53. Not enough, but a step forward,» Davletova noted.
She highlighted the ongoing undervaluation of women’s success, even by women themselves.
«We don’t always support each other. We judge victims instead of standing by them. We hesitate to celebrate each other’s achievements. Today, more than ever, the world needs women’s leadership. That is why I stand here today — to remind us of the power of women’s solidarity. When we lift each other up, we change the world»
Nozimakhon’s message was clear — women’s leadership is more crucial than ever in a world facing economic and social challenges. She also emphasised that this support must be ingrained in all aspects of society.
«It should be everywhere, in workplaces and governments, in classrooms, in businesses, in families and communities.»
She pointed out that leadership is not just about occupying high-ranking positions — it is about making a difference, regardless of one’s role in society.
ACWA Power’s role in empowering women
As a global leader in renewable energy, water desalination, and green hydrogen, ACWA Power operates across 13 countries with a $97 bn investment portfolio. In Uzbekistan, ACWA Power is the second-largest investor, with 15 projects totalling over $15 bn, all aligned with the country’s 2030 Strategy for sustainable development, energy security, and decarbonization.
The Women’s Power 2025 Forum reinforced ACWA Power’s commitment to fostering gender equity in the energy sector and beyond. By investing in education, professional development, and leadership opportunities, the company is ensuring that the next generation of women leaders has the support needed to thrive.
During the forum, ACWA Power representatives outlined their gender inclusion initiatives, including scholarship programs, mentorship opportunities, and leadership training aimed at increasing female participation in the energy sector. The company’s executives reaffirmed their goal of reaching a more balanced workforce, recognizing that diversity leads to greater innovation and stronger business outcomes.
Call to action: lifting women, lifting the world
Closing her speech, Davletova issued a rallying call.
«I’m here to honour our unity, dear ladies, to remind us how strong we are when we stand together. Because when women support each other, we don’t just lift ourselves up — we lift the world.»
The event gathered a diverse audience, including government officials, business leaders, academics, and young professionals, all committed to fostering a society where women can fully realize their potential. Panel discussions, keynote addresses, and networking sessions emphasised not only the achievements of women in Uzbekistan but also the critical areas where further progress is needed.
As the forum concluded, discussions continued among attendees eager to turn words into action. With initiatives like these gaining momentum, Uzbekistan is poised to continue its journey toward a future where gender equality is not just an aspiration but a reality.
