UN Women, First Lady of Bayelsa State – Empowering Rural Women in Bayelsa for Economic Independence

UN Women, First Lady of Bayelsa State – Empowering Rural Women in Bayelsa for Economic Independence

In a groundbreaking initiative, the UN Women, in collaboration with the Office of the First Lady of Bayelsa State, has empowered rural women in Bayelsa with food processing skills and equipment. The “Empower Bayelsa Women Elevation Program” aimed to improve the livelihood of women and girls and tackle discrimination and violence against them. The program consisted of a Business and Entrepreneurship Training, a food processing and Exportation training, and a week-long practical session where participants collectively processed and packaged items.

The impact of this program was evident in the appreciation expressed by the participants, who thanked the sponsors and facilitators for their support. The practical training session was particularly significant, as it coincided with the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence. The program was implemented by FACE Initiative, with sponsorship from UN Women and facilitation by Skillporte Multinational, a leading Creative Solution Provider in Bayelsa. This collaborative effort demonstrates the power of partnerships in driving positive change.

The “Empower Bayelsa Women Elevation Program” is a shining example of how economic empowerment can be a potent tool in the fight against discrimination and violence against women and girls. By providing rural women and girls with the skills and equipment needed to process and export food, this program has opened up new avenues for economic independence and self-sufficiency. This, in turn will reduce the vulnerability of women to gender based violence and discrimination.

As a testament to the success of this program, UN Women is set to launch a well-furnished food processing facility for Bayelsa women in First Quarter of 2025. This facility, which has received strong support from Her Excellency, Amb. Dr. Mrs. Gloria Diri, Wife of the Governor of Bayelsa State, will provide a permanent, well equipped and hygienic space for women and girls to process and package food products, further enhancing their economic prospects.

In conclusion, the “Empower Bayelsa Women Elevation Program” is a landmark initiative that has the potential to transform the lives of rural women in Bayelsa to take control of their economic destiny and build a brighter future for themselves and their families. As we look to the future, it is clear that this program will have a lasting impact on the lives of women in Bayelsa and beyond.

This was gathered from a discussion with some of the Project Facilitators Mr. Inatimi Odio and Dr. Ekemini Udo CPM at the Soon to Launch Facility.