In a move to bolster local commerce and commemorate the upcoming 2025 International Women’s Day (IWD), the Emmanuel Osemota Foundation has provided resources to 22 women in Okpagha community, Uhunwode Local Government Area, Edo State, to support their small businesses.
The empowerment initiative, spearheaded by the US-based epidemiologist and founder of the foundation, Emmanuel Osemota, aims to uplift women economically and contribute to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 5, focused on gender equality.
During the event, the Foundation, represented by Peter Ordia, also provided financial literacy training to the women, equipping them with essential skills for managing their business finances effectively.
“We are celebrating women all over the world, and particularly in this community,” said Dr. Ochuko Onovae, Chief Operations Officer of the Foundation, addressing the beneficiaries.
“Women are a symbol of strength; they are the ones producing everybody that you see today. They deserve to be celebrated every day and every time, and that is why we decided to come to this community to celebrate with these women and empower them for their businesses so that they can sustain their homes. 22 persons benefited from the Emmanuel Osemota Foundation today; they were given a token to support their businesses.”
Volunteer Apiah Blessing emphasized the vital role women play in society. “Women should be celebrated every day because they bear the brunt of the home; they do everything to protect their homes,” she stated.
Beneficiary Rose Odigie expressed her gratitude, saying, “Wherever the man brought this money from, God will replenish it. I thank the Foundation for honouring women in this community.”
In a statement, Emmanuel Osemota explained the foundation’s broader mission, highlighting their commitment to addressing challenges such as human trafficking, gender-based violence, and unemployment. The foundation provides access to education, menstrual health resources, entrepreneurship programs, and startup funds within Edo State.
“Through our initiatives, we empower girls with educational resources, entrepreneurship opportunities, and menstrual hygiene kits, thereby reducing dropout rates and fostering self-sufficiency,” Osemota stated. He further added that the Foundation aims to make “a lasting impact on the lives of women and girls in line with our mission.”
