Kano Bolsters Gender Equity Framework

Kano State Reaffirms Commitment to Gender Equity and Women’s Economic Empowerment

The Kano State Government has reaffirmed its dedication to advancing gender equity and women’s economic empowerment through the Gender Equity and Women Economic Empowerment (GEWEE) Coordination Committee. This commitment was highlighted during a strategic meeting organized by the state’s Ministry of Women Affairs in collaboration with the Bridge Connect Africa Initiative.

The meeting brought together various stakeholders to review progress made so far and to develop the 2026 Action Plan aimed at furthering gender equity across the state. The event was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Muhammad Sambo Aliyu, who spoke on behalf of the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Hajiya Amina Abdullahi Sani.

Sani emphasized that the purpose of the engagement was to strengthen coordination among partners working towards gender equity. She acknowledged the achievements made through policy reforms, institutional strengthening, and empowerment initiatives. However, she also stressed the importance of harmonizing ongoing programs to ensure greater impact and long-term sustainability.

Key milestones discussed during the meeting included the adoption and implementation of the Women Economic Empowerment policy framework. Additionally, targeted interventions have supported 400 survivors of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV). These efforts reflect the government’s ongoing commitment to addressing critical issues affecting women in the state.

Sani encouraged participants to approach the discussions with bold ideas, stronger collaboration, and a results-driven mindset to ensure measurable outcomes. She believed that such an approach would lead to meaningful progress in achieving gender equity and women’s empowerment.

Nethan Bako, the GEWEEDS Project Lead, also shared insights during the meeting. He identified economic dependence as a major driver of gender-based violence in Kano State. According to Bako, the project has partnered with the police, civil society organizations, development partners, and relevant government agencies to promote sustainable economic empowerment and culturally sensitive business initiatives.

Bako emphasized that strengthening women’s economic independence is crucial for reducing vulnerability and breaking cycles of abuse. He noted that coordinated action remains essential to achieving lasting change. His remarks underscored the need for a multi-stakeholder approach to address the root causes of gender-based violence and support women in building self-sufficiency.

The meeting served as a platform for dialogue, collaboration, and planning, bringing together key players from different sectors to work towards a common goal. It highlighted the importance of continued investment in programs that empower women economically and protect them from violence.

Through these collective efforts, Kano State aims to create an environment where women can thrive, contribute meaningfully to the economy, and live free from discrimination and violence. The 2026 Action Plan is expected to outline specific strategies and targets to achieve these goals, ensuring that the momentum gained from recent initiatives is sustained and expanded.

As the state moves forward, it is clear that gender equity and women’s economic empowerment remain central to its development agenda. With continued collaboration and a focus on sustainable solutions, Kano State is well-positioned to make significant strides in this important area.