AN agricultural expert, Dr Olufemi Bolarin, has called on women to fully engage in economic activities, including livestock farming, leading to increased productivity and resilience within the sector.
Dr Bolarin, who is the Kogi State Coordinating Office of Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES) made this known in his welcome address at the Gender Training on Prevention of Sexual Exploitation Abuse and Harassment (PSEAH), Gender-Based violence (Do No Harm Training and the Signing of the Code of Conduct for Kogi L-PRES PIU.
According to him, “these are not just numbers, they represent the lived experiences of individuals, impacting their physical and mental well-being, their sense of security, and their ability to participate fully in the society.
“The livestock sector, which our project focuses on is no exception to these challenges Women play a significant role in this sector, yet they often face unique vulnerabilities including limited access to resources, decision-making power and protection from violence. Gender-based violence not only inflicts direct harm on women but also undermines their capacity to contribute meaningfully to the development of the livestock sector and society at large.”
He noted that addressing the problem of GBV is not only a moral imperative but also a strategic necessity for sustainable development.
He added that when women are empowered and free from violence, they can fully engage in economic activities, including livestock farming, leading to increased productivity and resilience within the sector.
“Moreover, empowering women in the livestock sector has broader implications for development. Women are not just beneficiaries; they are agents of change and key drivers of progress in their communities. By ensuring their safety and well-being, we unlock their potential to innovate, contribute to the sustainable development of Kogi State and beyond.
“Today’s training and the signing of the Code of Conduct represent a step towards creating a safer, more inclusive, and equitable environment for all. By committing to PSEA, GBV prevention, and Do No Harm principles, we are laying the foundation for a more just and prosperous future, where every individual can thrive regardless of gender.
“I extend my deepest gratitude to all our partners, trainers, and participants for their unwavering support and dedication to this cause. Together, let us work tirelessly to eliminate GBV, empower women, and build a brighter, more inclusive future for Kogi State and its livestock sector.
In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Hajiya Lami Zaratu Lawal, commended Kogi L-PRES for the proactive steps taken to implement the Project in the State.
On her part, the National Gender Based Specialist of L-PRES, Mariam Ademu said World Bank has zero tolerance for gender Based Violence, saying the training was to equip the Project Implementation Unit with the challenge of gender inequality.
In her presentation, the Executive Director, Challenged Parenthood Network, Ms. Eunice Agbogun said Lack of access to land, cultural norms and social barriers among others are inimical to women participation in livestock farming, adding that empowering of women is key to reducing Gender based Violence in Nigeria.
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