The United Nations Association of Nigeria (UNAN) and the Rivers State Ministry of Women Affairs (RWMWA) have teamed up to empower over a hundred widows through skills, business, and financial support at the 2024 International Widows’ Day event.
The empowerment program, titled ‘Skills for Widows’ Empowerment,’ took place on Monday at the Women Development Centre in Port Harcourt. Many participants shared their stories of survival amid discrimination, stigma, suffering, and economic hardship, moving many attendees to tears.
A statement by Dr. Joan Agha, President of UNAN, reads, “In honor of this year’s International Widows’ Day, the Rivers State Ministry of Women Affairs (RWMWA), in collaboration with the United Nations Association of Nigeria (UNAN), held a successful empowerment programme titled ‘Skills for Widows’ Empowerment.’ The event took place on Tuesday, July 2nd, at the Women Development Centre in Port Harcourt. More than a hundred widows came together for the occasion to share their own stories, difficulties, and coping techniques. This gave the participants a forum for understanding and encouraged one another,” the statement added.
The program aimed to equip the women with practical skills, such as soap and bleach making, to help them achieve independence and financial security. Besides the skills training, participants received monetary awards. Ten widows received additional support in the form of start-up kits to help launch their own businesses. The program underscored the commitment of RWMWA and UNAN to provide both the knowledge and resources needed for the widows to run their enterprises successfully.
Dr. Roseline Apawari Uranta, Commissioner for Women Affairs of Rivers State, was the special guest of honor at the event. In her goodwill message, Dr. Uranta assured the widows that the state government was committed to alleviating their pain and encouraged them to seek assistance whenever needed. She highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to improve the welfare of widows, stating, “The state government is doing everything humanly possible to support and uplift the lives of Rivers people.”
The hybrid event included virtual participation from UNAN executives and members across Nigeria, including Dr. Agha; Mrs. Ijeoma Nweke, Vice President; Dr. Omopeju Afanu, Secretary General; and others. They expressed their admiration for the widows’ resilience and strength. “We are devoted to helping you establish better futures for yourself and your families. Together, we can do great things,” Dr. Agha assured the widows.
In her message, Dr. Mercy Bello Abu, Chairperson of the Planning Committee, thanked attendees for their contributions to advocating for widows’ rights and well-being. She emphasized the importance of collaboration in observing International Widows’ Day, highlighting the courage and perseverance of widows worldwide. She concluded by reaffirming the group’s commitment to making positive changes in the lives of widows.
The event also featured Rivers State’s Director of Finance and Accounts, who reiterated the state’s dedication to supporting widows.
The observance of International Widows’ Day in Rivers State not only highlighted the challenges faced by widows but also showcased their strength and determination when provided with the necessary support and opportunities.