"From Participants to Change-Makers: Empower Her Program Makes Impact





The recently concluded Empower Her training and empowerment program has instilled confidence in beneficiaries to advocate for good governance at the local government level. Organized by the Africa Foundation for Environment and Development (AFED) in partnership with CIVICUS, the program aimed to empower selected past and present community women leaders to become change agents in their communities.


The three-day interactive and educative sessions, held from May 13-15, 2024, equipped participants with advocacy ideas and empowerment skills, focusing on environmental governance and community development. Deaconess Ruth Olatanmi, zonal woman leader of Ado Odo Ota Joint ACDC, praised the program for broadening her knowledge in health, governance, and advocacy. "The program has exposed me to acquiring more knowledge in areas I previously had limited understanding," she said.



Chief Alhaja Bolatito Alabede, another participant, emphasized the crucial role citizens play in nation-building and holding government accountable. "I now understand that citizens have a vital role to play in ensuring good governance, and it's our responsibility to hold our leaders accountable," she said.


Mrs. Olajumoke Odeyemi, chairperson of the Ota Civil Society Road Monitoring Group, expressed her newfound understanding of local government formation and the importance of holding elected officials accountable. "I now fully understand the formation of the local government and what to do when the local government is needed to be called to action," she said. "Moreover, citizens should not view political office holders as superior beings, but rather as servants of the electorate."


Adeshola Afariogun, convener of the Empower Her program, emphasized the importance of empowering women and communities to drive positive change. "We are committed to equipping women and communities with the skills and knowledge needed to advocate for their rights and hold their leaders accountable. We believe that empowered communities are the key to achieving sustainable development and good governance."


In addition to the training and empowerment, the program also provided grants to participants to support their businesses as a form of empowerment. These grants will enable participants to grow their businesses, create jobs, and contribute to the economic development of their communities.


The program concluded with the formation and support of Ado Odo Ota Women for Good Governance and Ado Odo Ota Citizens Groups, marking a significant step towards a more empowered and engaged citizenry. These groups aim to promote good governance, environmental sustainability, and community development in the Ado Odo Ota area.


The Empower Her program demonstrates the power of community-led initiatives in driving positive change and promoting good governance. As the beneficiaries continue to advocate for their rights and hold their leaders accountable, they serve as a testament to the impact of empowering women and communities to become agents of change."

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