The Zamfara State Commissioner for the Ministry of Women Affairs, Dr. Aisha M.Z. Anka, has disclosed that the Gender Policy is a step toward creating a more inclusive, equitable, and just society, stating that the government is committed to addressing inequality.
This was revealed during a three-day workshop organized by the Zamfara State Ministry of Women Affairs in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) on Gender Policy and the development of a 2025 costed work plan, held at AZBIR Hotel, Birnin Kebbi.
“The workshop aimed to validate the Zamfara State Gender Policy. This occasion reflects our shared vision for a state where gender equality is not just an aspiration but a lived reality,” she said.
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The Zamfara State Commissioner for Women Affairs emphasized that the importance of a Gender Policy goes beyond being a mere document; it serves as a blueprint for action, identifying the root causes of gender-based disparities and outlining strategic interventions to address them.
Dr. Aisha M.Z. Anka explained that the policy aims to promote equal access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities for all genders, address harmful cultural and societal norms that perpetuate discrimination and gender-based violence, and ensure that women and girls, especially those in rural areas, have a voice in governance and development initiatives.
According to the Commissioner, when gender inequality is addressed, it uplifts entire communities, creating healthier, better-educated, and empowered women who are equipped to support their families, contribute to their communities, and drive the state’s development.
“Gender-based violence continues to undermine the dignity and safety of our women, while cultural barriers often prevent them from reaching their full potential,” she noted.
“This policy is an opportunity to confront these issues with boldness and determination. It is also a call to action for all of us—government, civil society, traditional leaders, and individuals—to play our part in building a state where gender equality thrives.”
The commissioner further explained that the workshop provides an opportunity to refine the draft Gender Policy and ensure it is both comprehensive and practical.
“As the Ministry of Women Affairs, we pledge our unwavering commitment to the implementation of this policy. We will work closely with all stakeholders to ensure its objectives are realized and that it becomes a catalyst for gender-inclusive development across all sectors of our state,” she affirmed.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development in Zamfara State, Dr. Habibu Yelwa, called on all participants to pay close attention and do justice while validating the Gender Policy.
In her remarks, the Director of Gender, Hajiya Asamu Madawaki, highlighted the objectives of the meeting, which included allowing critical stakeholders to review the implementation framework of the Gender Policy, identifying gender and social inclusion challenges, and developing a gender and social inclusion work plan.