By Aduragbemi Omiyale
A former Rector of Yaba College of Technology (YabaTech), Lagos, Mr Obafemi Omokungbe, has called for the implementation of programmes and initiatives designed to promote women’s entrepreneurship in Africa.
Speaking at the just-concluded 10th anniversary of the African Women Foundation for Nation Building (WINBAFRICA) in Lagos, Mr Omokungbe, a fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), also appealed to African countries to renew their commitment to women’s empowerment, saying it is a crucial step towards nation-building.
According to him, the journey toward women’s empowerment in Africa involves a comprehensive approach that spans various sectors, including education, healthcare, economy, and politics.
The scholar believes by investing in women’s empowerment, African countries can cultivate a more equitable society where women can achieve their full potential and contribute to the growth and development of their nations.
“These renewed commitments would require collaboration and partnership among governments, civil society, the private sector and international organizations.
“They include the implementation of programmes and initiatives to promote women’s entrepreneurship, access to credit, land ownership, and participation in the formal economy including targeted support for women in agriculture and small businesses.
“Commitment to increasing women’s representation in political leadership and decision-making positions through measures such as quotas, training programmes, and support for women’s political participation at all levels of government and comprehensive strategies to prevent and address gender-based violence including legal reforms, support services for survivors and campaigns to change social norms and attitudes that perpetuate violence against women,” Mr Omokungbe stated at the event themed Bridging the Gap: Celebrating a decade of Nation Building.
Also speaking, the President of WINBAFRICA, Mrs Bukola Bello-Jaiyesimi, said this year’s theme was designed to celebrate the legacy and advancement of women’s course.
“Nation-building is an ongoing effort carried out by women of every generation. As we reflect on our accomplishments over the past decade, we remain committed to empowering future generations in all sectors of the economy.
“We provide tuition, teaching equipment, and other resources to young girls and boys to show them that we care about their education and that they are the ones who will continue this effort. Our ultimate goal is to promote unity and peace and to inspire hope for a better future,” she submitted.
A school debate competition between Steady Steps School in Lekki and Bomak International Schools in Surulere, Lagos highlighted the commemorative event. The two schools had made it to the final stage of the competition.
Victoria Osademe of Bomak International Schools, Surulere, Lagos emerged as the best speaker of the day while Steady Steps School, Lekki won the WINBAFRICA Young Nation Builders’ Trophy (WYNBT).
During the WINBAFRICA Business Roundtable, senior secondary students of Bomak International College in Surulere, Lagos discussed Environmental Responsibility. Additionally, 20 young girls and boys were beneficiaries of the WINBAFRICA scholarship program at the event.
Other dignitaries that graced the occasion included Dr Kemi Akiyode Adebayo (BOT, WINBAFRICA), Toyin Joe Bassey (Secretary General, WINBAFRICA), and Dr Oluseun Popoola (Panelist Chairperson), among others.
