By Celestine Okafor (Editor-in-chief) @CelestineOkaf11
UN Women, in collaboration with UNAIDS, NACA and Association of Women Living with HIV (ASWHAN), and other partners, convened The International Women's Month Economic Empowerment Summit to mark the IWD 2024 Celebrations.
The spotlight of this event was firmly placed on the often-overlooked issue of exclusion faced by women living with HIV, disabilities, older women, and segments of impoverished youth, and actionable strategies to address these issues of economic exclusion and foster inclusive growth for marginalized groups in Nigeria.
In her address, UN Women Nigeria Country Representative, Ms. Beatrice Eyong, emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in achieving gender equality and empowering marginalized communities. She stated that, "Inclusion is not just an act of policymaking but rather essential for the survival of the human race.
"We are working hard to make ‘Leaving No One Behind’ practical."
Representatives of civil society organizations (CSOs) echoed similar sentiments. Mrs. Esther Hindi, the National Coordinator of ASWHAN, encouraged the need for tailored policies and programs to address the unique challenges faced by marginalized groups, particularly women living with HIV, women with disabilities, and elderly women.
Keynote speaker, Dr. Otive Igbuzur, Executive Director of the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy, and Development, delivered an insightful exposition on the root causes of exclusion, particularly focusing on resource-poor and vulnerable groups. Dr. Igbuzur highlighted the gaps in government policies, including social investment and welfare programs, and concluded by offering practical strategies and solutions to address these disparities, earning an explosive ovation from attendees.
The President of the Abuja Chambers of Commerce, in a gesture of solidarity, provided guidance on business and funding opportunities available to these marginalized groups, signaling a commitment to support their empowerment. In a promising turn of events, government officials and stakeholders present pledged concrete commitments to support ASWHAN and other marginalized groups, including promises of grants and aid.
Through interactive sessions and panel discussions, participants exchanged knowledge, shared best practices, and forged alliances to advance the economic empowerment of vulnerable groups in Nigeria. Ms. Patience Ekeoba, National Coordinator, UN Women, assured that at the end of the summit, sidelined women will become actively involved in social development. NNL.
