Int’l Women’s Day: Enugu governor’s wife moves to address food insecurity

The Wife of the Governor of Enugu State, Mrs Nkechinyere Mbah, has advocated the need to break down barriers that hinder progress of the women such as gender-based violence, unequal access to education, healthcare and discriminatory practices in the workplace.

Mrs Mbah made the assertion in Enugu during an event organised by her office in collaboration with the ministry of Children, Gender Affairs and Social Development to commemorate the 2024 International Women’s Day with the theme: “Inspire inclusion and count her in”

International Women’s Day is celebrated on March 8 annually to commemorate the resilience, achievements and contributions of women in various fields of endeavour whilst also acknowledging the challenges they continue to face.

Speaking, the Enugu first lady, Mrs Nkechinyere Mbah who described the theme as apt, said it propels the women to recognise and appreciate the diverse talents, perspectives and experiences that women exhibit.

She noted that the day serves as a call to action for accelerating women’s rights and fostering a more inclusive and equitable society.

She said her office has taken a step forward on the occasion of the Day to address the pressing issue of food insecurity that affects countless households in the state, stating that it requires collective efforts.

Earlier, the commissioner for Children, Gender Affairs and Social Development, Mrs Ngozi Enih, said women must work together to challenge harmful stereotypes, dismantle systemic barriers, and create an environment where women can participate fully and equally in all aspects of life.

She noted that the theme reminds the women of the importance of creating a society where every individual, regardless of gender, has equal opportunities to thrive, stating that women must redouble efforts to address the intersecting forms of discrimination that disproportionately affects women and girls including those based on race, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, and socio-economic status.

The event featured Goodwill messages from UNICEF and CARITAS; Paper presentations on Gender Issues and Inclusion; Women in Entrepreneurship Space; Women in Politics and Policy Decision Making, as well as Empowerment by the first lady, Mrs Nkechinyere Mbah

Highpoint was award of excellence presented to distinguished women of Enugu state including the first lady, Mrs Nkechinyere Mbah, wife of the immediate past governor of Enugu state, Mrs Monica Ugwuanyi, former deputy governor of Enugu, Hon Mrs Cecelia Ezeilo, former commissioner for Gender Affairs and Social Development, Hon Princess Peace Nnaji, member Enugu state house of assembly, Hon Mrs Jane Eneh, Prof. Edith Nwosu, Lady Engr. Uchenwa Ujam, Chief Mrs. Patience Ozokwor (Mama G), and Amb. Mrs. Chinemerem Anyi.