Cross section of widows at the summit
By Sunny A. David, Awka
Widows have been charged to keep hope alive for their families by engaging themselves productively to be self-reliant.
Governor Willie Obiano gave the charge during the second edition of 2018 Anambra State Widows Summit held at Emmaus House, Awka.
Addressing the widows, Governor Obiano represented by his Special Adviser on Special Duties and Continuous Voter Registration, Dr Mrs. Amaka Akudo restated state government’s commitment to alleviating the plight and sufferings of widows and other indigent citizens.
He stressed that his administration will continue to give hope to the hopeless and as well as give them equal recognition in the society.
Also speaking, Barrister Juliet Amasiatu said the purpose of the initiative was to protect the rights of vulnerable women and children who have been intimidated and humiliated in their families and society, advising widows to hope and trust in God.
Nze Nworah called on government at all levels to consider the plight of widows in their policies and plans.
The Special Assistant to the Governor on Environment, Mr. Stanley Nkwoka maintained that vulnerable women in the society should be treated with love and compassion, adding that all hands must be on deck in order to stop obnoxious practices against widows, and canvassed for the promotion of women’s welfare.
The founder of Diamond Hearts Foundation, Mr. Onyemuche Emeka in his welcome address, said the initiative was set up to encourage poor widows, restore their hopes and empower them for social transformation, listing transportation, empowerment and education support for children as some of the challenges facing the scheme, and appealed for government’s support and encouragement to achieve their goal.
Representatives from Ministry of Children and Women Affairs, and the academia were among people that graced the occasion and awards were given to Governor Obiano, Mr. Nkwoka and five others.
The event featured lectures and exhibitions of some products.
