Abuja, Oct. 17, 2024 (TheGavel) – The Adinya Arise Foundation has called for increased investment in health, education, financial empowerment, and technology to enhance the contributions of rural women to Nigeria’s economic and social development.
Mrs. Mabel Ade, Executive Director of the foundation, emphasized the need for this focus during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday in Abuja. She stated that empowering rural women is crucial for fostering inclusive economic growth and ensuring long-term food security in the country.
“It is imperative to invest in rural women through various strategies. Empowering rural women is not just about individual upliftment; it is a crucial driver for a more equitable and prosperous Nigeria,” Ade said. “The Nigerian rural woman exemplifies resilience and strength, yet she faces immense challenges that stifle her dignity and potential. The time to act is now; the future of Nigeria’s food security, economic growth, and social stability depends on this commitment.”
Ade underscored the importance of recognizing the pivotal role rural women play in society and addressing the barriers they face. According to her, doing so will lay the foundation for a more inclusive and prosperous future for the nation.
She proposed several key initiatives to support rural women, including the establishment of accessible health insurance schemes to ensure quality healthcare, particularly in improving maternal and reproductive health outcomes.
Ade also advocated for financial empowerment through microfinance initiatives and educational programs aimed at bridging the financial literacy gap. Such efforts, she said, would foster entrepreneurship among rural women and improve their economic independence.
Additionally, Ade highlighted the need to include rural women in climate resilience programs, stating that their involvement is essential in safeguarding Nigeria’s agricultural future, especially in the face of climate change.
She also called for the creation of platforms that would enable rural women to participate in political processes, stressing that their involvement is essential for the formulation of gender-sensitive policies.
Ade further urged the National Assembly to prioritize the passage of pending Gender Bills and to strengthen the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) law, thereby creating a robust legal framework that protects women’s rights.
Moreover, she emphasized the importance of expanding access to digital tools in rural areas, noting that this would facilitate women’s economic empowerment and significantly improve their quality of life.
“Empowering rural women is not just a moral obligation but a strategic investment in Nigeria’s future,” Ade concluded.(NAN)
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