By Cynthia Talatu Batuta and Gloria Josiah
A dynamic gathering of women leaders, entrepreneurs, and development advocates took place at the Mariam Babangida Women Development Center in Abuja, organized by the Pan African Young Women Development Initiative (PAYWODI). The event, themed “Women Entrepreneurs: Catalysts for Sustainable Development and Economic Growth,” highlighted the critical role women play in driving economic progress and fostering sustainable practices across Africa.
The forum brought together over 300 participants from various sectors, including technology, agriculture, and renewable energy. Keynote speakers included prominent entrepreneurs and policymakers who underscored the unique challenges and opportunities faced by women in business. The event featured workshops, panel discussions, and networking sessions aimed at empowering women and sharing best practices for sustainable entrepreneurship.
In her opening address Dr. Jophia Gupar, founder of the Pan-Africa Young Women Development Initiatives revealed that the colloquium was born out of the economic devastation women faced post-COVID-19.
“Women business were shattered during the pandemic It became clear we needed to regroup and reimagine our economic potential,” she stated. She emphasized that while women have demonstrated resilience in business their presence in the political arena remains weak due to systemic financial barriers.
“The life of a woman is a battle,” Dr Gupar noted. Any progress she makes is offen fought by those closest to her Unity and economic power are non-negotiable.”
As the pre-event to the forthcoming Johannesburg colloquium, the Abuja gathering set a bold tone for advancing women-led solution to Africa’s economic challenges.
The honorable minister of women affairs Imam Suleiman, highly represented by her Special Adviser Mrs Eniforlami Ola, lauded the initiative, pledging continue government support.
She noted that the Tinunbu-led administration is committed to uplifting women, especially at grace roots level
Delivering her goodwill massage, Olori Temitope Enitan Ogunwusi wife of the Ooni of Ife,urges women to embrace positive self-image and refuse to let societal limitations define them. “We must think highly of ourselves beyond any opinion especially from men. I remain a committed pillar to women’s development” she affirmed.
Also speaking the National President of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalist NAWOJ comrade Aisha Ibrahim Bura, also represented by the FCT chairperson comrade Bassy Ita Ikpang, praised the timelines of the event “when women drive innovation, they generate jobs and build resilient communities. The outcome is always positive economic transformation,” she assured that NAWOJ is ready to partner in advancing this cause.
In a stirring reflection, Comrade Grace Ike, the first-ever female Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council in it’s over 40 years history shared her journey. “Economic empowerment was my fuel. Without it I wouldn’t have made history,” she remarked while applauding the organisers for creating a platform that embodies women supporting women.
The event highlighted innovative business models led by women that prioritize environmental sustainability. EcoFarms, which promotes organic farming practices among women in rural areas. “By training women to adopt eco-friendly methods, to improving food security but also enhancing biodiversity and reducing carbon footprints.
Panel discussions covered various topics, including access to financing, mentorship, and the impact of technology on women-led businesses. One of the standout sessions featured a financial expert addressing the importance of microfinance and investment in fostering female entrepreneurship. Women entrepreneurs often face barriers to accessing capital. Addressing these gaps is crucial to unlocking their potential.
Participants echoed the urgency of supporting women entrepreneurs as a priority for achieving economic resilience in Africa. There should be more platforms that provide resources, mentorship, and funding specifically designed for women