By Hussaina Yakubu
A coalition of civil society organizations (CSOs), under the aegis of the Coalition for the Domestication of the National Women’s Economic Empowerment (WEE) Policy, has commended the Kaduna State government for initiating the domestication of the policy aimed at enhancing inclusivity.
The commendation was made during a press conference organized by the group with support from the Development Research and Projects Centre (DRPC).
Dr. Bilkis Yusuf, Chairperson of the group and Chief Executive Director of the Centre for Study and Resolution of Domestic Violence (CERSDOV), highlighted the importance of socializing the WEE policy as a crucial step toward bridging the gender gap in the state.
She emphasized that women constitute 50% of Kaduna’s population and have significantly contributed to its social, political, and economic development since the state’s inception.
“We commend the Kaduna State government for inaugurating a 12-member committee to implement the domestication process for the state,” Yusuf stated.
“We also acknowledge the government’s ongoing efforts to enhance women’s economic development, evidenced by resources and opportunities recently made available to women-owned small and medium businesses.
Yusuf urged the committee to adhere to the carefully selected approaches outlined in the WEE policy, which include the use of data, innovation, advocacy, proper implementation, and evaluation processes.
She stressed on the importance of addressing challenges that hinder women’s progress in the state’s economic landscape.
The group called on all key stakeholders in the state to embrace the policy and take ownership of its implementation and sustainability.
“Our gratitude goes to the coalition of civil society groups on the domestication of the national WEE policy, supported by the Development Research and Project Centre (DRPC), for recognizing the state’s potential,”
Dr. Yusuf further assured DRPC that Kaduna State will exceed expectations in delivering its mandate.(NAN)