Elochukwu Benjamin
Awka
The Women Information Network (WINET) has trained leaders of women’s rights organisations in Anambra State on gender-based violence (GBV) prevention and feminist leadership as part of efforts to build a stronger and more coordinated women’s movement across Nigeria.
The one-day capacity-building programme, held in Awka, was organised under the Strengthening Women’s Rights Organizations in Nigeria for Gender-Based Violence Prevention project, with support from the Amandla Institute for Policy and Leadership Advancement.
Speaking at the training, WINET Executive Director, Mrs Miriam Menkiti, said the initiative is designed to strengthen women’s rights organisations and equip them with the skills needed to jointly advocate for gender equality, social justice, and the economic and political empowerment of women.
She explained that the project is being implemented across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, with WINET coordinating activities in the five South-East states of Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Imo.
According to her, the organisation has also been engaging government officials through advocacy visits to encourage partnerships and policies that promote women’s rights.
“Today, we have brought together leaders of women’s rights organisations in Anambra to build their capacity in movement building for gender-based violence prevention and deepen their understanding of feminist and intergenerational leadership,” Menkiti said.
She urged women’s organisations to work together and speak with one voice in tackling gender-based violence and other issues affecting women and girls.
Drawing lessons from history, Menkiti cited the Aba Women’s movement as evidence of the power of collective action, noting that organised women were able to influence public policy and challenge injustice long before the era of modern communication technology.
She also highlighted ongoing advocacy for the Reserved Seats Bill, describing it as an important step towards increasing women’s representation in political decision-making and building a more inclusive democratic system.
Menkiti disclosed that 25 women leaders participated in the Anambra training, adding that similar programmes had already been held in Enugu and Ebonyi, with Imo and Abia next on the schedule.
She commended the Anambra State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs Esther Chinyere Onyekesi, and the Amandla Institute for supporting the project.
