Catalysing Strengthened Policy Action for Healthy Diets and Resilience (CASCADE) Project, implemented by CARE and GAIN, in collaboration with the Kebbi State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, has sought for the breakdown of barriers in food systems and decision making for women in Kebbi State.
CASCADE’s Senior Project Manager, Mrs. Sandra Osammor, made the plea while speaking at the International Women’s Day 2025 in Kebbi State titled “Equal access, better nutrition: Championing women in food systems”, organised by CASCADE, in collaboration with the Kebbi State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development.
Osammor noted that through the event, CASCADE and its partners aim to break down barriers that prevent women from thriving in food systems, decision-making, and economic empowerment.
She explained that her organisation’s programmes implemented by the Cooperative Assistance and Relief Everywhere (CARE) and the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN), in collaboration with the Kebbi State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, are focusing on advancing gender equality, empowering women, and addressing barriers to their full participation in the society.
The project manager disclosed that the activities were designed to celebrate the achievements of women while advocating their continued inclusion in economic, social, and decision-making processes.
She said: “As we celebrate International Women’s Day 2025, under the theme #AccelerateAction, we are reminded of the urgency to create opportunities for women to thrive in all aspects of life. Through the CASCADE project, we are committed to empowering women in Kebbi State by addressing barriers to their inclusion and advocating policies that prioritise their health and well-being.”
The day’s symposium included interactive dialogue sessions with the women, which planned to identify the challenges they are facing in their communities, particularly in areas of economic empowerment and access to resources, among others.
Kebbi State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Halima Hassan Kamba, noted that by standing together, collectively, there would be a lot of changes in the course of fighting for women’s rights.
She said: “ We are here not merely as individuals, but as a collective force for change. From policymakers to grassroots activists, every voice matters in our pursuit of equality. Together, we stand stronger as we continue to strive for a world where every woman and girl can thrive, make choices, and pursue their dreams free from fear and prejudice.
“As a government, our mission reflects a commitment to gender equality and women’s empowerment across all our policies and programmes. We recognise that women should not only be seen as beneficiaries of development but as pivotal agents of progress. Therefore, we will continue to advocate and implement strategies that uplift women in every arena”.
Also, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Dr.Suwaiba Yauri, noted that gender equality is not just a women issue, but a global necessity for a more just, inclusive and prosperous world.
She said: “This year’s theme is, ‘Let us accelerate action’. So we need to invest in women and accelerate progress. I call upon all of us to take action to empower, uplift and create opportunities for women everywhere, whether through education, economic empowerment or advocating equal rights; every one of us plays a role in shaping a future where every woman and girl can reach her full potential.
“As we listen to inspiring stories, engage in meaningful conversations and reflect on the journey ahead, let us reaffirm our commitment to a world where every woman’s voice is heard, valued and celebrated.”
In his goodwill message, the Kebbi State Commander, National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Person (NAPTIP), Mr. Misbahu Iyya Kaura, insisted that all efforts of the agency to stop human trafficking were for the benefit of women. He stressed that the agency is waging a serious crusade against sexual exploitation of human and women’s trafficking.
