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This past year has been extremely challenging to say the least. Today’s International Women’s Day comes on the heels of a year entrenched in the COVID-19 pandemic which has unfortunately hindered our progress in pushing for gender equality and equal opportunities for the women of this great state.
Firstly, let me thank all the women who have been frontline workers. Not only being at the forefront of the pandemic and nursing those of us who caught the virus back to health but also, taking on greater responsibilities at home and ensuring that our families are kept safe and healthy. Thank you for all your contributions towards fighting this global pandemic, for your continued bravery and for your compassion.
Today, on International Women’s Day, 1001+ Voices Initiative for People Empowerment recommit to achieving a world in which every woman and girl enjoys the full range of rights and freedoms that are her birthright. As we continue to address significant issues that hinder women’s economic growth and development in Africa, as we continue to drive efforts to amplify voices and advocate for gender equality while promoting women’s rights in Akwa-Ibom, Nigeria and all over the world, we will collaborate with Wodiong Senie Foundation in her campaign #AWUWAN which will focus on gender parity in the state.
The #AWUWAN initiative will provide an opportunity for 1001+ Voices through the WOSEN Foundation to drive more attention and gather more momentum towards the unique challenges that women all over Akwa-Ibom face, especially post-pandemic recovery. It will help women realize their full potential by providing them the tools they need to achieve their goals, implementing policies that promote equal opportunities, investing in education for the girl child and by partnering with medical personnel and facilities to provide affordable healthcare for girls and women.
On March 7th 2021, our International Coordinator, Ide O. Owodiong-Idemeko together with his wife, Ekaette J. Owodiong-Idemeko organized and participated in a meeting with the women of Ndiya in Nsit Ubium LGA to commemorate the 2021 International Women’s Day. We know that investing in our women and girls will lead to a better future for us all. Not only will local economies be much improved, but more women rising to positions of leadership will ensure a more inclusive and participatory governance that will minimize marginalization and we will all be better for it.
Uwem-obong Ankak
Executive Secretary
