By Ayodele Oni
Women Groups from five states in the northern part of the country are brainstorming in Jos, Plateau state at a two day programme to discuss rights for the womenfolk.
The States are Plateau, Benue, Bauchi, Gombe and Adamawa and the programme is under the auspices of CLEEN Foundation with support from the Norwegian Embassy, and United Nations (UN) Women.
According to the organizers, the two-day event symbolizes empowerment, resilience, and a steadfast commitment towards advancing women’s rights.
Director of Plateau state Gender and Equal Opportunities Commission, Olivia Dazyam, while speaking at the occasion on Monday, said the event served as a pivotal platform for women to amplify their voices and foster unity in their quest for gender equality and social justice.
With the theme “Learning Exchange for Frontline Women Mediation Network In Plateau,” Olivia said the programme aims to equip women with the necessary tools and knowledge to engage effectively in societal transformation.
The director added that by enhancing their capacities and advocacy skills, participants are poised to become formidable agents of change within their communities, catalyzing a ripple effect of empowerment and progress.
She explained that the importance of localized engagement is emphasized as a cornerstone of the programme, recognizing the unique power and influence that women mediation platforms possess at the grassroots level.
“By amplifying our voices within our communities, women are better positioned to address social issues, mediate conflicts, and drive positive change that resonates at the local and regional levels.”
Earlier, Peter Gad, the director CLEEN Foundation, while declaring the two day programme open, said the training holding simultaneously in Plateau and Kaduna states, serves as the symbolic presence of women, representing a myriad of backgrounds, experiences and aspirations that epitomizes the rich tapestry of resilience and courage that define the Nigerian women
He added that the foundation has fully invested in changing the stereotype around women and promoting the many ways they can pivot.
“At CLEEN Foundation, we are fully invested in changing the stereotype around women and promoting the many ways they can pivot. So far, this series of engagements, have helped shape the women in fundamental aspects of peace building, digital skills, communication and cyber security.
“Furthermore, their interest, commitment and results have truly been next-level and commendable.
“This exchange visit between the National Women Mediation Network, Project secondary state platforms, and State Women mediators in Kaduna and Plateau presents an opportunity for collaborative learning and capacity building in conflict resolution and mediation, particularly focusing on gender perspectives.
“More so, in pursuit of sustainable peace (SDG16), the importance of this gathering cannot be overemphasized. It also aims to leverage on local expertise and National support to promote peace building initiatives in the respective regions.”
The discussions revolved around key issues such as conflict resolution, gender-based violence, women’s economic empowerment, and political participation.
Throughout the event, participants are expected to engage in panel discussions, and interactive sessions that facilitate knowledge-sharing, networking, and collaborative problem-solving.
