As the world celebrates the International Women’s Day today, the words of Margaret Thatcher which says: “if you want something said, asks a man. If you want something done, ask a woman,” comes to mind.
It is against this backdrop that the international community has set aside the 8th of March every year to celebrate the achievements of women across the globe.
This year, the theme for the International Women’s Day is: “Invest in women: Accelerate progress”. This theme underlines the need to open up financial boundaries and opportunities for women to be fully involved in the socioeconomic and political development of their societies.
The contributions of women are often unrecognized and undervalued due to certain age long cultural norms, yet, women are essential to the smooth functioning of society.
In many societies of the world, women are the primary caregivers for children and elderly family members. They make the home habitable and comfortable. They are also educators and role models for the next generation by inspiring children to pursue their goals and aspirations. Despite being very active in the home front, women have also contributed in the economic development of the society as they constitute a significant portion of the workforce in some cultures. They also engage in politics and governance where they have also excelled as well as activism and advocacy.
The Ministry has equally made much progress in protecting and preserving the rights of women through her zero tolerance to sexual and gender based violence. Today, there is a Sexual and Gender Based Violence Unit, with a Legal Unit in the State Ministry of Women Affairs. We have established a designated SGBV Magistrate and High Court. Our prompt response to sexual and gender based violence cases has brought many laurels to the state, thanks to the ever supportive wife of the State Governor, Dr. Nonye Soludo.
We salute the efforts of the Governor’s wife and her passion in making Ndi Anambra to live a better life. Her Healthy Living Initiative is gradually becoming a culture in the state., Nonye’s Healthy Living Club has just been launched in the three hundred and twenty six State Primary Schools.
Moreover, the Governor’s wife has also introduced Healthy Living Garden Competition in primary and secondary schools in the state, to ignite the interest of the children in agriculture and hardwork which will promote the provision of more organic foods, and self-sufficiency in food production for Ndi Anambra.
Beyond that, the Solution House-2-House Women Initiative to support women in small scale businesses with grants has also been launched. This programme could not have commenced at a better time than now when the nation’s economic woes is reaching high heavens.
We also want to commend Anambra women at home and in the Diaspora who are in business, women entrepreneurs, community and religious leaders, as well as women activists for the key roles they have played to make Anambra state shine brighter in different sectors.
As we mark the International Women’s day today, we call on all and sundry to not only invest in women, but to celebrate the women in their lives. Drop a word of appreciation to your wife or mother who has been caring for you, makana etoo dike na nke o mere eme, o mekwa ozo.
Written IFY OBINABO
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