By Osemudiamhen Gloria
The Office of the First Lady under the auspices of the Edo State Government, has received an invitation from the Consulate General of the Republic of South Africa for corporate partnership, which is aimed at strengthening developmental ties and to advance key sectors of the economy, particularly in empowering youths and women in the State.
The Coordinator, Office of the First Lady, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani gave the information in her office at Government House in Benin City, where she commended the representatives of the Republic of South Africa for their laudable initiatives.
Mrs. Anani expressed her enthusiasm for partnering with the Consulate General, highlighting the need to support vulnerable women who have been violated and empowering them through various initiatives. According to her, “We deal with vulnerable women. We would love to partner with you, as we have many women who have been violated. Their rights have been severely impacted financially, mentally, and emotionally. We are here to empower them as much as we can”.
She emphasized the importance of mentorship and digital empowerment for women, stating that plans were being put in place to groom women digitally, where they would be empowered in science and technology.
Additionally, Mrs. Anani supported investments in the hospitality sector, where youths can also be empowered and become useful members of society. She also emphasized the need for holistic empowerment, stating, “I always say; beyond rehabilitating, bringing them into shelter, what happens afterwards? How do we disabuse their minds? How do we rehabilitate them into the system?”
The Consulate General of the Republic of South Africa, Prof. Bobby Moroe expressed his desire to collaborate with the Edo State Government. He highlighted areas of common interest and mutual benefit to include youth development programmes, agro-processing, agriculture, science and technology, arts, culture, tourism, and hospitality.
The Vice Consul, Ms. Busisiwe Dlamini maintained that their social responsibility is majorly focused on women empowerment. She outlined several initiatives which have empowered women and extended an invitation to attend the South Africa week, an event that promotes social connections through engaging activities like golf, movies, and entertainment.
Dignitaries present at the meeting include the Chief Protocol, Office of the First Lady, Mrs. Mabel Oboh, the All Progressive Congress (APC), Oredo Local Government Women Leader, Mrs. Esther Kolade, amongst others.
The meeting ended on a note of optimism and mutual commitment, with both entities looking forward to a fruitful partnership that would enhance the lives of women and youths in Edo State.
