We ARE INVESTING IN CREATING VAST OPPORTUNITIRD FOR RURAL WOMEN TO ECONOMICALLY ADVANCE THEMSELVES….OXFAM

By AKOR SYLVESTER,-Abija

A non governmental organisation Oxfam  Nigeria has said it is invested in creating vast opportunities for rural women to economically advance  themselves.

Abdulazeez Musa

Deputy County Director and Programs Director of the organisation in an address at the International Rural Women’s Day in Abuja  said oxfam was honoured  to join hands with the Federal Ministry  of Women Affairs to commemorate the 2022 International Rural Women’s Day.

He said “the contribution of Rural Women to Nigeria’s economy is immense, and Oxfam recognizes this through our programs that center women in our mission to mobilize people against poverty.

According to him ‘this year’s theme, ‘Rural women cultivating good food for all’ recognizes the vital role that

rural women hold in food production in Nigeria.

“When they are given greater access to

resources and opportunities to advance themselves, rural women become invaluable members of Nigeria’s workforce”,.

He commended the Ministry for its consistent effort in supporting and representing rural women.

The organisation Director said through the Village Savings and Loans Association (VSLA), rural women

receive strategic financial management training, entrepreneurship development, and coaching/mentoring. To date, the program has impacted over 170,000 women across eight

states in Nigeria.

He maintained that With over 67% female membership, the VSLA presents the opportunity to promote and strengthen gender justice and reducing gender inequality through

strengthening women economic empowerment programs using enterprise development

approach and linkage to financial support services.

The Director reaffirmed oxfam commitment to consistently include rural women as an integral part of

the projects.

He said through collaborative efforts, the organisation seek to achieve greater milestones in empowering rural women.