Adamawa’s Lone Female Legislator Urges Early Political Education, Sparking a Movement to Empower Young Girls

Adamawa’s Only Female Legislator Calls for Early Political Education, “Empowering Our Daughters”

In a stirring address that resonated with attendees, Hon. Kate Mamuno, the representative for Lamurde Local Government Area in the Adamawa State House of Assembly, made a compelling case for the political education of young girls.

Speaking at a one-day engagement organized by the Adamawa State Government in collaboration with UN Women, Hon. Mamuno emphasized the importance of nurturing political awareness in the state’s female youth.

“It is good to educate our young girls in the aspect of politics,” Hon. Mamuno declared, her voice carrying the weight of her dual roles as a local representative and the House Majority Leader on Women Affairs.

The event, held at AUN Hotel on Thursday, September 6, 2024, brought together a diverse array of stakeholders, from government officials to grassroots activists.

Hon. Mamuno’s vision extends beyond mere representation. She sees political education as a crucial stepping stone for women’s involvement in governance.

“The reason is simply for them to come up with the mindset of politics in them,” she explained, adding, “And, because it is the only avenue for them to contribute their quota in the developmental stride of government.”

In a call to action that echoed through the conference hall, Hon. Mamuno urged young girls and women to take concrete steps towards political engagement.

“Register with any party of your choice and start from there in order to prepare for the future,” she advised, painting a picture of a more inclusive political landscape in Adamawa’s future.

The event wasn’t just a platform for political figures. It buzzed with energy as partners, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), security agencies, and women’s groups shared their perspectives and experiences.

A key highlight of the engagement was the presentation by Mr. Peter Mancha, representing UN Women in the BAY states (Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe). Mancha provided an overview of the United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1325, shedding light on its significance for women’s rights and security.

“UN Member States signed this resolution on October 31, 2000,” Mancha explained, “to address security issues that affect women’s rights and security during conflict or violence.” He pointed out a critical realization that led to this resolution: the potential and contributions of women in peace and security matters had been historically undermined, necessitating their inclusion in relevant decision-making processes.

Mancha outlined the four pillars of UNSCR 1325:
1. Participation in all aspects of peace and security
2. Protection against sexual-based violence
3. Prevention from conflict
4. Relief and recovery, ensuring women are involved in decisions that concern them

• 
  Lifestyle and Entertainment

  A Look at the Most Popular Podcasts in Nigeria Right Now
• 
  Politics and Government

  Biden Grants Pardons to Fauci, Milley, and Jan. 6 Committee Members Amid Trump Threats
• 
  Science and Technology

  Unprecedented Views: April’s Total Solar Eclipse to Cover 95% of the Sky – Wow!

The engagement served multiple purposes beyond awareness-raising. Participants worked on drafting a State Action Plan, discussed challenges and success stories, and explored ways to strengthen existing structures for implementing the UN Women project in Adamawa State.

As the event concluded, there was a palpable sense of purpose among the attendees. Hon. Mamuno’s call for early political education of girls had struck a chord, offering a vision of a future where Adamawa’s women play a more significant role in shaping the state’s destiny.

The path ahead may be long, but with initiatives like this, it’s clear that the journey has well and truly begun.