By Thompson Yamput
VOWE Foundation, a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) has empowered over 100 women farmers with farm implements in Enugu State.
The gesture was extended to only women in Nkerefi Community, Nkanu East Local Government of Enugu, was in celebration of this year’s International Women’s Day
Mrs Sophia Uzodimma-Onovo, Founder and Chairperson, Board of Trustees, VOWE Foundation, while presenting the implements to the women of Nkerefi Community as part, commended the women for their resilience and commitment to farming.
Mrs Uzodimma-Onovo who was represented by
Chisom Loveth Nwagwu, urged stakeholders to acknowledge the positive impact of women on food production and security, which impacts positively on the nation’s economy.
“Having joined the world in celebrating this year’s International Women’s Day, I urge us all to reflect on the important role of rural women, not just in agriculture but in every sector of our society.
“Let us continue to break barriers, open opportunities, and invest intentionally in women. Because when women succeed, our communities succeed. When women grow, Nigeria grows.
“To the 100 women receiving these farming implements today, we see your hard work, we recognize your strength, and we believe in your potential”, she said.
Mrs Uzodimma-Onovo pointed out that the 2025 global theme, “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress”, was not just a slogan for VOWE Foundation.
“It is a call to action, and a reminder that empowering women, especially rural women farmers, is one of the surest ways to foster development, food security, and economic growth in our communities..
Today marks a special milestone for VOWE Foundation. This event is not only a celebration of the resilience, strength, and contributions of women in our society.
“But it also marks the 2nd Edition of our Women in Agriculture Scheme, an initiative designed to support and empower rural women farmers” adding that over 100 women farmers were also empowered during the first edition in 2024.
“Last year, we launched this scheme with the donation of farming tools and training to women in this community, and the positive impact has been truly inspiring.
“We have seen women increase their farm yields, improve their livelihoods, and even begin small-scale agribusinesses that are helping to feed their families and educate their children.
“This year, we are proud to extend this support to over 100 more women farmers, providing them with essential farming implements to ease their work and enhance productivity”, she said.
The VOWE Founder stated that the investment in women was on the basis of the realization that, when you invest in a woman, you invest in a family, a community, and an entire generation.
She said studies had shown that women form the backbone of agriculture in Nigeria, contributing more than 70 per cent of the total food production.
“Yet, many of them still lack access to modern tools, improved seedlings, finance, and knowledge that could transform their work into real economic power.
The Foundation, she said, believed that “When we reduce the drudgery of manual farming by providing basic tools like hoes, cutlasses, watering cans, fertilizers, and improved seeds, we are not just giving equipment, we are giving dignity, opportunity, and hope.
She added: “In the months ahead, VOWE Foundation will work with agricultural extension experts to train these women on climate-smart farming techniques, post-harvest handling, and market access strategies.
“Our goal is to see our women thrive not just as farmers but as agri-entrepreneurs who will create wealth and inspire the next. ” (ephemeralnews.com.ng)
