Youth Alive Foundation Africa (YAF), a non-profit organization committed to youth empowerment and gender equality, has called on government and non-state actors to change social norms that limit women’s participation, inclusion in politics and governance.
YAF, through Women in Politics Akwa Ibom (WIPA) project, also advocated for legislative amendments to strengthen the enforcement of gender laws in the country.
The foundation noted that if such is done, it will enhance women’s representation and reinforce gender equity within political leadership.
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This was disclosed during the press briefing on Friday November 15 at the Corporate Office of the foundation in Uyo.
In her release, Dr. Uduak Akpan, Country Director Youth Alive Foundation assured members of the public of the foundation’s resolve in its mission to dismantle barriers and create a political landscape where women can thrive in leadership roles.
She recommended community engagement and advocacy; sensitization and Policy reform and gender-responsive budgeting as essentials for women participation in politics.
YAF commended the commitment and leadership of the Akwa Ibom State Governor in enhancing women’s representation in the recently concluded local government elections.
“The report underscores persistent barriers that hinder women’s engagement in Akwa Ibom State’s political space. Cultural and social obstacles, such as entrenched patriarchal norms and gender stereotypes, continue to limit women’s opportunities in leadership roles within political parties and governance structures. Despite the existence of laws like the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Law and the Widowhood Law, enforcement challenges, inadequate penalties, and the lack of gender-responsive budgeting diminish their effectiveness in supporting women’s political participation. Additionally, limited awareness among women, particularly at the grassroots level, reduces their ability to leverage legal frameworks to overcome political obstacles.
“To address these challenges, the report provides targeted recommendations aimed at enhancing women’s representation and reinforcing gender equity within political leadership. Community engagement and advocacy are crucial; amplifying sensitization efforts and conducting high-level advocacy on gender laws can shift public perception, challenge deep-seated stereotypes, and build local support for women in politics. Policy reform and gender-responsive budgeting are also essential. Advocating for legislative amendments to strengthen the enforcement of gender laws, paired with gender-sensitive budgeting, will channel resources toward initiatives that empower women through political training and leadership opportunities. Moreover, capacity building for law enforcement and civil society is necessary. Training law enforcement on gender-sensitive issues and equipping civil society organizations with advocacy tools will reinforce the infrastructure needed to support women’s political advancement.
“YAF commends the commitment and leadership of the Akwa Ibom State Governor in enhancing women’s representation in the recently concluded local government elections. This forward-thinking support for gender-inclusive governance has not only amplified women’s voices in local leadership roles but also set a transformative example for equitable political practices in Akwa Ibom State. The Governor’s backing has enabled more women to attain influential positions, fostering a more diverse and representative governance structure.
“Through the Women in Politics Akwa Ibom (WIPA) Project, YAF has made notable strides in fostering a more inclusive political landscape. The foundation has trained and mentored 150 emerging female leaders across Akwa Ibom’s three senatorial districts, increasing the number of women candidates at the local level. Networking and capacity-building seminars organized by YAF have successfully galvanized community support for women in politics and governance. Collaborative efforts with stakeholders have led to legislative reviews and awareness campaigns, empowering women to understand and exercise their rights within the political framework. Additionally, virtual mentorship initiatives, including WhatsApp-based support groups and monthly mentorship sessions, have significantly increased young women’s participation in politics.
“YAF remains resolute in its mission to dismantle barriers and create a political landscape where women can thrive in leadership roles. Through sustained advocacy, specialized training, and community engagement, the foundation is paving the way for a more gender-inclusive political system in Akwa Ibom State and beyond.
“We call on the public, media, political parties and government officials to change the social norms that limit women participation and inclusion in Politics and Governance and create a more enabling environment for women to participate and celebrate the success stories of women in leadership and elected offices who are making impact.”
The event featured roundtable discussions on “experience sharing as an Elected Female Politician” by Hon. Itoroobong Etim House Member representing Uruan and Chairman Finance and Appropriations Committee.
Hon. Idongesit Micah, a Councilor in Ibesikpo Asutan LGA, spoke on “Creating Pathways for Young women to Participate in Politics.” While Hon. Emaedu Inyang, Vice Chair, IKA LGA spoke on “recommendations for developing Grassroots women Leadership.”
