
On October 15, 2024, PoliServe sparks new solutions for rural women as TechHerfrica brought together women from underserved communities, policymakers, and private sector leaders to mark the International Day of Rural Women. With a theme focused on “Enhancing Livelihoods of Rural Women through Stakeholder Collaboration,” the dialogue aimed to address challenges such as financial exclusion, digital literacy, and limited access to business opportunities.
Imade Bibowei-Osuobeni, CEO of TechHerfrica, explained the purpose of the event: “PoliServe Dialogue seeks to unite rural women with stakeholders from government and private sectors to spark discussions that address their challenges and inspire practical solutions.”
A Platform for Voices and Practical Collaboration
The event featured contributions from partners such as the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), Fidelity Bank, and the Ministry of Women Affairs, focusing on issues ranging from business formalization to sustainable agriculture and gender-based violence. These discussions emphasized the importance of collective efforts to drive meaningful change.
Olanrewaju Alaka, founder of Laerryblue Media, described the collaboration as essential, stating, “Today’s event shows how institutions can come together to serve rural market women and amplify their voices.” The dialogue gave rural women the opportunity to engage policymakers directly, fostering connections that could shape future development.
Financial advocate Chinasa Collins emphasized that women are essential to national progress, but remain one of the most excluded groups from basic financial services. Her message was clear: women must have equal access to tools that foster independence. “No women, no nation,” she said, highlighting the urgency of empowering women through inclusive policies.
A major focus of the dialogue was digital literacy. As rural communities increasingly depend on technology for economic participation, TechHerfrica and its partners emphasized the need for women to access these skills. Programs discussed during the event aim to teach business management, online safety, and leadership to better prepare women for modern challenges.
Addressing Climate Challenges for Rural Communities
The dialogue also addressed climate resilience strategies, recognizing the disproportionate impact of environmental changes on rural women whose livelihoods rely on agriculture. Stakeholders discussed how integrating sustainable agricultural practices into community programs can protect livelihoods and reduce vulnerabilities to climate disruptions.
Representatives from the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs committed to long-term collaboration with TechHerfrica. Irene Ewa expressed the ministry’s eagerness to continue working closely with NGOs that amplify rural women’s voices, ensuring that government policies reflect the realities faced by these communities.
A Promising Path Forward
The PoliServe Dialogue concluded with commitments from both public and private sector stakeholders to support the empowerment of rural women. The inclusion of organizations like SMEDAN and UN Women added weight to these promises, signaling a stronger framework for progress. Gifts and recognition were given to participants, leaving them with renewed hope that the discussions will translate into concrete actions.
TechHerfrica’s efforts have been widely praised for bringing women’s issues to the forefront of national conversations, setting the stage for future dialogues and sustained collaboration. PoliServe sparks new solutions for rural women, driving meaningful change that will improve their livelihoods and amplify their influence in society.
Conclusion
The success of the PoliServe Dialogue reflects the potential for sustained partnerships to transform rural communities. To access more documents and insights on initiatives that promote women’s empowerment and economic growth, visit genderpedia.ng/shop for detailed resources and materials.
References
- PoliServe Dialogue brings rural women, stakeholders together for impactful discussions
- TechHerfrica’s PoliServe Dialogue Ignites Change: Rural Women and Leaders Collaborate for Lasting Solutions