The call to empower women leaders to speak up has never been more urgent. Female politicians must step into the spotlight and advocate for gender equality in politics. In Lagos, a one-day media training event was held by ARDA Development Communication Incorporated, emphasizing the need for greater female representation in governance. This initiative is part of the Advanced Women in Political Participation (AWPP) project, designed to give women the tools to challenge traditional barriers and foster inclusive leadership.
Breaking Barriers for Women in Politics
Priscila Fibersima, AWPP Project Manager, outlined the project’s goals of removing obstacles preventing women from engaging in politics. The training equips media professionals with the skills necessary to advocate for women in leadership. The media, Priscila emphasized, plays a pivotal role in shaping how women are perceived in the political arena. It can challenge outdated stereotypes and support female politicians in breaking free from limiting expectations.
The Media’s Role in Empowering Women Leaders
Jesudunsin Olusanya, Managing Partner at WGCCo, echoed the importance of media in amplifying women’s voices. She highlighted the stark reality of low women’s participation in politics, pointing to Nigeria’s 146th place in the Global Gender Gap report. Olusanya stressed that female leaders must share their accomplishments to inspire others and call attention to the barriers they face, such as cultural expectations, financial constraints, and lack of support.
Challenging Cultural Norms and Stereotypes
One major challenge women in politics face is the persistent questioning of their ability to balance home and office duties. These questions often limit their leadership potential and reinforce traditional gender roles. It’s essential that women speak out, challenge these narratives, and assert their capabilities beyond societal expectations. Olusanya also noted the complexity of factors such as corruption and violence against women that hinder political progress.
The Need for Continued Advocacy and Community Support
Olusanya urged for ongoing community involvement and advocacy to amplify women’s voices in political spaces. She called for greater awareness of gender disparities in political representation and stressed that media should expose discriminatory practices hindering women’s advancement. It’s vital for all stakeholders to be committed to gender equality in governance, following in the footsteps of historical figures like Olufunmilayo Ransome-Kuti, who fought for women’s rights in Nigeria.
Conclusion
Empowering women leaders to speak up is crucial to ensuring progress in governance. Female politicians must be supported, encouraged, and given the platform to share their experiences and visions. The power to create change lies within their voices. As the call to action grows stronger, we must act now to change the dynamics of political leadership. To further understand how you can support this movement, visit genderpedia.ng/shop for resources on women’s political participation.
References:
For further reading on women in politics and gender equality, explore the following articles:
