517,365 Bauchi women, girl get economic supports from ActionAid Nigeria

ActionAid has said that its Women’s Voice and Leadership Nigeria project has supported 517,365 women and girls in different communities of Bauchi state.

Speaking during the close-out and dissemination of the project in Bauchi on Tuesday, the Country Director of ActionAid Nigeria, Andrew Mamedu, said that the project was funded by Global Affairs Canada.

He said that the project which started in 2019, was driven by an unwavering commitment to empower women, challenge entrenched cultural practices, and promote gender equality.

Mamedu who was represented by the Deputy Country Director, ActionAid Nigeria, Hajiya Suwaiba Muhammad Dankabo said that: “Through the invaluable support of Global Affairs Canada and the collaborative efforts of over 100 Women’s Rights Organizations inclusive of 1 Network organisation, 3 Local Women’s Rights Organisations and 12 Community Based Organisations here in Bauchi state, we have provided direct support to 517,365 women and girls across communities in 18 LGAs.”

According to him, the interventions have touched the lives of countless women, girls, persons with disability and their families.

“From providing safe spaces and legal support for survivors of gender-based violence to promoting women’s economic empowerment and justice as well as enhancing their participation in leadership roles, the impact of our work is evident in the transformed lives and strengthened communities we see today.

“Through economic programmes like the Village Savings and Loans Association (VSLA), 365 groups have been formed and over N297,408,254 has been saved by these women in Bauchi state.

“With a significant investment of N357,633,398 this project has touched the lives of over 1.5 million individuals in the state, including women, girls, men, boys, and persons with disabilities.

“This achievement is a testament to the power of collaboration and the unwavering dedication of all our partners, stakeholders, and community members, within a conducive working environment provided by the state government and stakeholders.

“Together, we have made significant strides towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society, and today, we celebrate the positive change that has been achieved through our collective efforts,” he said.

He commended the Governor of Bauchi state Bala Mohammed, the Ministry of Women Affairs, and other ministries for providing the opportunity to work in the state.

The project was implemented by 16 implementing partners such as; FAWOYDI, FOMWAN, ASHHF, RW, CIG, AIDCODE, KWAYUDA, RIGHT, WEIN, RHISA, SWOFON, SABEERASH, SISWACHI, CAN and AZURFA.