Investing in Women: The Foundation of Every Progressive Society – Hon. Uchenna Harris Okonkwo
The importance of women in the socio-economic fabric of any society cannot be overstated. Women form the bedrock upon which many societies are built, contributing immensely to various spheres including family life, the economy, and education. Yet, despite their undeniable significance, women often face systemic barriers and discriminatory practices that limit their potential. The key to unlocking a nation’s full potential lies in the empowerment of women. Hon. Uchenna Harris Okonkwo, the Honourable Member representing Idemili North and South Federal Constituency, has consistently highlighted the central role of women in the development and progress of any society. His message on International Women’s Day is a testament to his unwavering commitment to ensuring gender equality and women’s empowerment.
On the occasion of International Women’s Day, Hon. Okonkwo delivered a heartfelt message to the women of Idemili, applauding their hard work and sacrifices. This message was not only an acknowledgment of their contributions but also a call to action for society at large to prioritize gender equality. In this article, we will delve into the significance of Hon. Okonkwo’s message and explore the critical role that investing in women plays in the advancement of both local and global communities.
Hon. Okonkwo’s message highlights a universal truth: women are the backbone of every progressive society. Women have, for centuries, been at the forefront of community development, often without the recognition or rewards they deserve. Their role in nurturing families, educating the next generation, and contributing to the workforce has been foundational to the growth of societies around the world.
At the family level, women are the primary caregivers and nurturers. They manage households, care for children, and often serve as the emotional support system for their families. This is no small task, as the well-being of future generations is largely influenced by the values, discipline, and care imparted within the home. In many African societies, including Nigeria, women carry the weight of familial duties, balancing household responsibilities with other activities, including business, education, and healthcare. This often results in women being the unsung heroes of social development.
In addition to family life, women have made substantial contributions to economic development. From informal sectors such as agriculture and small-scale businesses to more formal roles in the corporate world, women have been instrumental in driving economic growth. Their involvement in business, particularly micro-enterprises, plays a crucial role in poverty alleviation, as women tend to reinvest earnings into their families and communities. Furthermore, when women are empowered economically, they tend to contribute more significantly to national economies, as studies have shown that women often spend a higher percentage of their income on family welfare and community development.
The role of women in educational advancement cannot be overemphasized. Women are not only the primary caregivers but also the educators in many homes, shaping the minds of future generations. By investing in women’s education, societies are setting the stage for long-term progress. An educated woman is more likely to invest in the education of her children, breaking the cycle of poverty and helping to create a brighter future for the next generation. Women’s participation in higher education and their involvement in shaping curriculums, mentoring, and leadership also enhance the intellectual capital of any society.
In his message, Hon. Okonkwo rightly acknowledges the contributions of women across all sectors of society. The recognition of these roles is crucial because, without women, societies would face stagnation, if not regression. Yet, the true potential of women remains untapped, as many still face discrimination, limited access to resources, and systemic barriers that restrict their full participation in the development of their communities.
International Women’s Day is celebrated globally to honor the achievements of women while also raising awareness about the ongoing struggles they face. This year’s theme, “For All Women and Girls: Rights, Equality, Empowerment,” is a poignant reminder of the work that remains to be done. Despite the progress made in advancing women’s rights, women and girls continue to face challenges in many parts of the world.
For women in Nigeria and other African nations, these challenges are exacerbated by cultural norms, gender-based violence, and a lack of access to education and healthcare. Moreover, political participation, though improving, remains largely skewed in favor of men. The underrepresentation of women in leadership roles across various sectors—whether in politics, business, or academia—serves as a reflection of the larger structural inequalities that women continue to confront.
Hon. Okonkwo’s message resonates deeply with this theme, as he calls for collective action to prioritize gender equality. He emphasizes the need for society as a whole to ensure that women and girls are not only given the rights they deserve but also the tools and opportunities to thrive. His message is a call for all sectors of society—government, the private sector, civil society, and families—to join forces in creating a world where gender equality is not merely aspirational, but a reality.
A key aspect of Hon. Okonkwo’s message is his commitment to championing bills, laws, and policies that promote gender equality. As a legislator, Hon. Okonkwo recognizes the critical role of policy in shaping the trajectory of women’s rights and empowerment. While societal attitudes toward gender equality are important, legislative frameworks that protect and promote the rights of women can have a profound impact on achieving gender parity.
In his capacity as a member of the National Assembly, Hon. Okonkwo has the opportunity to advocate for policies that directly benefit women. These policies might include legal reforms to ensure equal pay for equal work, laws to combat gender-based violence, improved access to healthcare, and more investment in women’s education. Additionally, policies that provide financial support for women-owned businesses, mentorship programs, and initiatives that promote women’s participation in politics and decision-making processes are crucial to leveling the playing field.
One area that requires particular attention is the issue of gender-based violence. In many parts of Nigeria, women and girls face the constant threat of violence, both in their homes and in public spaces. Legislation that strengthens the legal framework to protect women from violence and provides adequate support for survivors is essential. Moreover, laws that ensure women’s land rights, access to credit, and inheritance rights will help break down barriers that often hold women back economically.
Investing in women is not only a moral imperative; it is also a strategic one. Numerous studies have shown that when women are empowered, entire communities benefit. For instance, the World Bank has found that investing in women’s education and health has significant economic benefits, as it leads to increased productivity, greater economic output, and more equitable societies.
At the microeconomic level, when women are given the opportunity to engage in business or entrepreneurial ventures, they often have a positive multiplier effect on their communities. Women tend to be more community-oriented, reinvesting their earnings into local economies and social causes. Furthermore, when women are empowered, they contribute to the economy in ways that drive broader societal progress. Women’s participation in the workforce helps reduce poverty, foster innovation, and promote a more equitable distribution of wealth.
On a macroeconomic scale, gender equality can significantly boost a nation’s GDP. The United Nations has consistently emphasized that closing the gender gap could lead to a substantial increase in global GDP. For example, in Africa, the McKinsey Global Institute has estimated that closing the gender gap in labor force participation and productivity could add up to $28 trillion to global GDP by 2025. This demonstrates that investing in women is not just a matter of justice but a powerful engine for economic growth.
One of the most effective ways to empower women is through education. Educated women are more likely to participate in the labor force, contribute to their economies, and make informed decisions about their health and families. Education also serves as a pathway to leadership positions, enabling women to take on roles in government, business, and civil society.
In Nigeria, as in many African nations, access to education for girls remains a challenge. While significant strides have been made in improving enrollment rates, girls still face barriers to completing their education, particularly in rural areas. These barriers include early marriage, cultural norms, and a lack of adequate sanitation facilities in schools. In many cases, these factors result in girls dropping out of school, depriving them of the opportunity to realize their full potential.
Hon. Okonkwo has consistently advocated for better access to education for all, particularly for young girls. By prioritizing education, societies can break the cycle of poverty and create a generation of women who are equipped with the skills and knowledge to lead and innovate. When women are educated, they not only improve their own lives but also contribute to the well-being of their families and communities.
The message delivered by Hon. Uchenna Harris Okonkwo on International Women’s Day serves as both a celebration of the achievements of women and a call to action for society to take concrete steps toward achieving gender equality. Investing in women is one of the most effective ways to build a progressive, prosperous, and equitable society. By ensuring that women have access to education, healthcare, economic opportunities, and legal protections, we can unlock the full potential of half of the population and accelerate development across all sectors.
Hon. Okonkwo’s unwavering commitment to women’s empowerment is an example of the leadership needed to drive these changes. As a society, it is incumbent upon us all—government, businesses, communities, and individuals—to join forces in championing the rights of women and ensuring that they have the opportunities they need to thrive. Only then can we create a future where women and girls have equal rights, opportunities, and the ability to contribute fully to society. As we reflect on the theme of this year’s International Women’s Day, we must continue to prioritize the empowerment of women for the benefit of all.
