From Stanley Uzoaru, Owerri
Over two hundred women, mostly widows and the physically challenged, in Imo State received cash from the Ike Odoeme Foundation to assist them in starting a trade of their choice. The gesture, according to the Executive Director of the foundation, Sylvie Marie, was in commemoration of the global International Women’s Day (IWD) celebration.
Besides the cash empowerment, Marie said the foundation will be building a house for a widow within four months to save her from the unhealthy condition of her apartment. She also assured of the organisation’s commitment to supporting the less privileged and women living with disabilities.
“We will continue to impact lives of the vulnerable members of the society, the widows, less privileged and provide health and educational support to women and girl children for better acquisition of skills,” Marie stated.
“Last year, the foundation championed several initiatives including provision of 50 million Naira economic empowerment in collaboration Zenith bank where we supported 200 women and 40 youth for business and farming ventures. We financed the treatment of for 20 women and other IVF sections among other life changing empowerments. This year, we are expanding our support.
“To mark this year’s International Women’s Day event, we have empowered some women with handsome financial support to start their catering, tailoring and other businesses of their choice. The theme for this year, ‘Accelerate Action’ is a call to move beyond mere conversations and policies: It is a challenge for us to take deliberate steps towards women’s empowerment.
“For too long, we have spoken about equal opportunities, yet many women still face barriers in education, politics, and business. We have discussed women’s rights, yet too many women are victims of gender-based violence, pay gaps, and discrimination.
“Governments must enforce laws that protect women’s rights. Organizations must prioritize women’s inclusion in leadership roles. Society must challenge stereotypes and cultural practices that limit women. Women must support and uplift one another instead of tearing each other down,” Marie said.