”Empowering Women, Transforming Puntland”
Garowe, Puntland March 2024: In a powerful display of unity and determination, the Media Association of Puntland (MAP) and Save the Children hosted an event in Galkaio to commemorate International Women’s Day on March 8, 2024.
The event, themed “Invest in women: Accelerate progress,” brought together a diverse array of stakeholders to discuss the strides and hurdles in promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment in the region.
The event began with a powerful opening address by MAP’s Secretary General, Naima Musse Elmi. She eloquently articulated that this was not merely a day of acknowledgment, but a clarion call to action. While emphasizing the intrinsic value of investing in the women of Puntland as a direct investment in the future of the region.
“Celebrating International Women’s Day 2024 was a collective rallying cry, a vibrant symphony of voices resonating the urgency for gender equality and women’s empowerment,” Elmi proclaimed, her words reverberating with a sense of purpose and determination.
Panelists from various sectors, including health, civil society, and government, shared their insights and experiences.
Juweriya, a health professional, shed light on the critical issue of gender-based violence, acknowledging the continued prevalence of such acts while also highlighting the empowerment of victims to seek medical care and support services through awareness campaigns.
Shukri Abdi Ali, the Chair of the Mudug Women’s Organization, spoke about her organization’s dedication to advocating for women’s rights, including legal support, food security, and promoting access to quality education. She acknowledged the financial constraints her office faces, but expressed a commitment to enhancing collaboration with existing women’s networks to address the multifaceted needs of women in the region.
Discussions highlighted the persistent issues of gender-based violence, limited economic opportunities, and low education levels, all of which contribute to the underrepresentation of women in politics and business sectors of Somalia, Puntland included. The audience actively engaged in constructive dialogue, reflecting a mix of empathy, outrage, and a renewed sense of resolve to drive meaningful change.
In support of the event’s goals, MAP and Save the Children launched ongoing initiatives, such as radio series and TV talk shows, aimed at catalyzing crucial conversations on gender issues and women’s empowerment. These efforts seek to amplify the voices of Puntland’s women and propel tangible progress towards gender equality.
The International Women’s Day celebration in Galkio was a powerful and inspiring event that showcased the region’s commitment to empowering women and driving progress towards a more equitable and inclusive future. This event serves as a model for other communities to follow, as they work towards creating a world where women’s rights and opportunities are fully realized.
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