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Cecilia Umoren leads change in Nigeria’s Oil sector.

by Women Times on

 

 

By Prosper Mene 

In the high-stakes world of Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, where pipelines crisscross the Niger Delta and global markets hang on every barrel, Cecilia Umoren stands as a beacon of resilience and vision. As Executive Chairman of Millennium Oil and Gas since 2015, she has spent a decade steering the company through turbulent waters—both literal and figurative—while quietly carving a path for women in a sector long defined by male dominance. Her story is one of grit, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to sustainable growth, earning her a spot among the 100 Reputable Women of African Descent in 2025.

Umoren’s journey to the top of Millennium Oil and Gas is not just a personal triumph; it’s a testament to the slow but seismic shift unfolding in Nigeria’s energy landscape. The oil sector, which accounts for over 90% of the nation’s foreign exchange earnings, has historically been a tough arena for women. Yet, under her leadership, Millennium, a player in upstream exploration and production has weathered economic volatility, security challenges, and the global push toward cleaner energy. “It’s not about surviving the storm,” Umoren once said in a rare interview. “It’s about building something that endures beyond it.”

Taking the helm in 2015, Umoren inherited a company at a crossroads. Nigeria’s oil industry was grappling with falling global prices, rampant oil theft, and a government eager to diversify the economy. Her approach was methodical yet bold: streamline operations, invest in local talent, and prioritize sustainability. Over the past decade, she has overseen the development of key assets in the Niger Delta, navigating the region’s complex socio-political dynamics while fostering partnerships with communities often at odds with oil firms. Her tenure has seen Millennium bolster its production capacity, contributing to Nigeria’s fragile but vital oil output recovery—projected to hit 1.8 million barrels per day in 2025, despite setbacks like the recent pipeline explosions in Rivers State.

What sets Umoren apart, colleagues say, is her ability to balance profit with purpose. In an industry criticized for environmental negligence, she has championed initiatives to reduce gas flaring and integrate renewable energy pilots into Millennium’s operations. “The future of oil isn’t just about extraction—it’s about responsibility,” she remarked at an industry summit in Abuja last year. This vision aligns with Nigeria’s broader ambitions under the Petroleum Industry Act, which seeks to modernize the sector while addressing climate concerns.

For Umoren, leadership is personal. Raised in Akwa Ibom, a state rich in oil yet scarred by its extraction, she witnessed firsthand the paradox of resource wealth and local poverty. That perspective drives her advocacy for inclusion, not just for women, but for the communities her industry touches. At Millennium, she has pushed for training programs that elevate female engineers and geoscientists, a move that echoes across an industry where women globally make up only 22% of the workforce. Her efforts earned her accolades this month from the Empowerment and Entrepreneurship Initiative, which hailed her as a trailblazer for African women.

Her rise hasn’t been without challenges. The oil sector’s volatility—exacerbated by incidents like the March 2025 Rivers State crisis, where sabotage slashed output—tests even the steadiest hands. Critics argue her cautious approach to expansion has limited Millennium’s scale compared to giants like Shell or Chevron. Yet, supporters counter that her focus on stability has kept the company afloat where others have faltered. “She’s not here to chase headlines,” says a longtime associate. “She’s here to build a legacy.”

Umoren’s story resonates beyond the boardroom. She joins a growing cadre of Nigerian women reshaping the oil sector—from Elohor Aiboni, Shell Nigeria’s first female MD, to Senator Margareth Chuba Okadigbo, NNPC’s pioneering female chairman. Together, they signal a cultural shift in an industry at a pivotal moment, as Nigeria courts foreign investment (notably from China, with 74 oil-focused firms signing deals in 2024) while grappling with domestic unrest.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Diversity and InclusionNewsUncategorizedWomen & Business

CBN Governor Highlights Gender Equity Milestone with Women at 35% of Apex Bank Directors.

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

In a landmark stride toward gender inclusion in Nigeria’s financial sector, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has achieved a significant milestone, with women now constituting 35% of its recently appointed directors. Governor Olayemi Cardoso emphasized this achievement as a testament to the bank’s commitment to fostering inclusive leadership, speaking at the grand finale of the International Women’s Day (IWD) celebrations held at the CBN headquarters in Abuja.

Cardoso highlighted the importance of gender equity, describing it as both a moral imperative and an economic necessity. “At the CBN, we are proud to be part of this global movement. Women now make up 35% of recently appointed directors and three out of the seven non-executive board members, showing our firm commitment to fostering inclusive leadership in Nigeria’s financial sector,” he stated. He highlighted that the growing presence of female leaders in top positions across banks and regulatory bodies is reshaping the industry, with the number of female managing directors in Nigerian financial institutions reaching an all-time high.

The event, which marked the culmination of IWD 2025 activities, also featured the “Inspiring Women Award,” an initiative by the CBN’s Change and Culture Transformation Unit (CCTU). Out of 806 nominations nationwide, 28 exceptional female staff members from branches including Awka, Dutse, Yola, Gombe, Oshogbo, Kaduna, Enugu, and Birnin Kebbi were honored for their outstanding contributions. Among the recipients, Deputy Governor Emem Usoro received the prestigious Amazon Award from Cardoso, recognizing her exemplary leadership since taking office.

Cardoso praised the contributions of newly appointed directors such as Daphne Dafinone, Nkiru Balonwu, and Shola Phillips, noting their pivotal roles in navigating complex challenges and shaping the bank’s policy direction. “Increasing women’s representation in leadership is not just ethical; it is a strategic necessity,” he said, adding that the rise of women in leadership at the CBN mirrors a global shift toward diverse and visionary governance.

Deputy Governor of Corporate Services, Emem Usoro, echoed Cardoso’s sentiments, emphasizing the urgency of the IWD 2025 theme, “Accelerate Action.” Citing a World Economic Forum report projecting full gender parity by 2054, she called on institutions to dismantle structural barriers and create opportunities for women. “This year’s program reflects our shared commitment to equity, inclusion, and institutional progress,” Usoro remarked.

The CBN’s push for gender equity is in terms with broader efforts to enhance financial inclusion, particularly for women and underserved groups. Recent initiatives, including the Women Entrepreneurs Finance Code and a Gender Desk within the Financial Inclusion Unit, shows the bank’s dedication to closing the gender gap in access to finance, a gap currently estimated at 9% in Nigeria.

 

 

 

 

 

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Nigerian Women Rise Above Tough Times with Grit, Teamwork, and Clever Ideas.

by Women Times on

 

By Prosper Mene 

Nigeria’s economy is in a tight spot these days, and it’s hitting everyone hard. Inflation has pushed the prices of food, clothes, and even transport through the roof, while fuel costs keep climbing after recent shortages. But across the country, from the noisy markets of Lagos to the office blocks of Abuja, Nigerian women are proving they’ve got what it takes to push through. A new report released this week by the Women’s Economic Network shines a light on how they’re adapting—and it’s inspiring stuff.

Take the small-scale traders in Lagos, for example. Women like Mama Tolu, who sells tomatoes and peppers at Mile 12 Market, are getting creative. “Before, I could buy a bag of tomatoes for 5,000 naira,” she said. “Now it’s 12,000, and customers don’t have money to pay more. So, I started making stew in small batches to sell—it keeps me going.” She’s not alone. Many traders are adding new items like homemade snacks or soap to their stalls, turning little ideas into extra cash.

In cities like Kano, women are juggling even more. Amina, a 35-year-old mother of three, used to rely on her husband’s mechanic job. But with fuel prices up, his work slowed down. Now, she’s taken up tailoring on the side. “I borrow a sewing machine from my sister and make clothes at night,” she told us. “It’s not much, but it buys bread and pays school fees.” Her story echoes what the report found: side hustles are popping up everywhere as women find ways to fill the gaps.

Then there’s the teamwork angle. In Abuja, a group of women in Garki have formed what they call a “savings circle.” Funmi, a primary school teacher, explained how it works: “Ten of us put in 2,000 naira every week. Each month, one person takes the pot—20,000 naira. It’s helped me buy books for my kids and even fix my stove.” The report says these community networks are a lifeline, especially in rural areas where banks feel out of reach. In places like Ogun State, women are swapping farm goods like yam and cassava instead of cash, keeping their families fed when money’s scarce.

Experts say this isn’t just about getting by—it’s about women holding Nigeria together. Dr. Ngozi Okeke, who worked on the report, pointed out, “Women manage over 70% of household spending in Nigeria. When the economy shakes, they’re the ones steadying the ship.” Her numbers back up the stories: in Kano alone, women’s contributions to local markets have kept food stalls running despite a 30% drop in sales this year.

From Lagos to the north, these women aren’t waiting for things to get easier. Whether it’s a trader frying akara at dawn, a nurse selling hair oil after her shift, or a group of friends sharing the load, they’re showing resilience that’s hard to miss. As Nigeria battles these tough economic times, it’s clear: the strength of its women is a big part of what’s keeping families and the country afloat.

 

 

 

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Nigerian Women Entrepreneurs Rally for Economic Equity at Lagos Summit.

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

 

Hundreds of Nigerian women entrepreneurs descended on Lagos today for the “Women in Business Summit,” demanding bold policy changes to secure greater economic inclusion in a nation where their potential remains largely untapped. Held at the Eko Convention Centre, the event brought together business owners, policymakers, and international advocates to address the stark disparities facing women-led enterprises.

Funke Adeyemi, founder of a fast-growing fintech startup, set the tone with a fiery opening speech. “We’re not asking for handouts—we’re demanding a level playing field,” she declared, citing data that women-owned businesses in Nigeria receive less than 15% of available venture capital despite driving significant job creation. Adeyemi pointed to the success of initiatives like “SheTrades Nigeria,” which has empowered over 5,000 women to break into export markets since its launch in 2023, as proof of what’s possible with proper support.

The summit’s urgency was amplified by recent commitments made at the UN Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69) earlier this month, where Nigeria pledged to advance gender equity. Yet attendees, including small-scale traders and tech innovators alike, voiced frustration over slow progress. “Access to loans, training, and markets shouldn’t be a privilege—it’s a right,” said Chidinma Okoro, a textile entrepreneur from Aba, echoing a common refrain.

Government representatives present, including the Minister of Women Affairs, promised to review proposals for tax incentives and microfinance schemes tailored for women. International delegates from the World Bank and UN Women also pledged technical support, spotlighting Nigeria as a key player in the global push for women’s economic empowerment.

As the day unfolded, the summit trended online under #WomenMeanBusiness, with participants vowing to hold leaders accountable.

 

 

 

 

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EmpowermentEntrepreneurWomen & Business

Nigerian Women Entrepreneurs Persist Amid Challenges, Driven by Quest for Stability.

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

A recent report by Mastercard, first published by Businessday NG on 5 March, continues to resonate across Nigeria, shedding light on the motivations of female entrepreneurs. The study revealed that over 90% of Nigerian women are driven to start their own businesses by a desire for financial security, with a particular emphasis on achieving independence and establishing a safety net. This trend is especially pronounced among younger generations, namely millennials and Gen Z, who are increasingly taking their futures into their own hands.

Since the report’s release, it has sparked widespread discussion. Many women who have ventured into entrepreneurship acknowledge the difficulties but view it as a preferable alternative to reliance on others or an uncertain job market. Amaka, a hairdresser in Lagos, shared her perspective: “I opened my salon because I refused to live at the mercy of others. Rent is steep and power supply is unreliable, but I can now provide for my child and rest easier knowing I control my income.”

The Mastercard findings highlight a burgeoning entrepreneurial spirit, particularly among young women fresh from education or balancing side ventures. Rather than waiting for traditional employment opportunities, which are often scarce, they are launching small retail outlets, engaging in e-commerce, or offering services such as catering to secure their livelihoods.

However, the path is not without obstacles. Entrepreneurs frequently cite challenges such as taxation, poor infrastructure, and inconsistent electricity as significant hurdles. Despite these difficulties, their resolve remains unshaken. Chioma, a trader in Abuja, remarked, “I may not have everything I need, but I’m determined to ensure my children don’t endure the struggles I’ve faced.”

Observers suggest that this wave of determination could transform Nigeria’s economic landscape if supported by government initiatives, such as accessible loans or improved market conditions. For now, these women continue to forge ahead, demonstrating remarkable resilience and a refusal to be deterred.

 

 

 

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Women & Business

6 Nigerian Women Authors Who Helped Shape Society As We Know It Today

by Women Times on

By Fadeke Banjo

The early Nigerian literacy scene was largely dominated by male authors such as Wole Soyinka, Chinua Achebe, Cyprian Ekwensi, and Gabriel Okara, who rose to prominence between the 1950s and 1970s. However, the contributions of Nigerian women authors, though often overlooked, have had a profound impact on both society and the literacy scene in the West African country, and globally, for decades.  

Pioneers like Flora Nwapa, Buchi Emecheta, and Balaraba Ramat Yakubu, challenged the status quo through their storytelling, fearlessly discussing social issues affecting women in their communities, such as child marriage, women’s education, and financial independence. They laid the foundation for contemporary writers like Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Abi Daré, and Tomi Adeyemi — who explore and express the diverse experiences of Nigerian womanhood, while also addressing pressing social issues like women’s rights, gender oppression, sexuality, identity, and women’s bodily autonomy — to build a substantial literary landscape upon. Their works often have strong female protagonists and heroines in their novels, empowering women to recognise the significance of their voices and to challenge patriarchal norms.

Today, Nigerian female writers are continuing a legacy of creating literature as a social movement, calling for justice while also highlighting the realities that women in the country face. Their work is making significant contributions at home and globally, driving essential conversations about women’s rights and representation at every level. With that said, here are six Nigerian women authors you should add to your bookshelf.

1. Flora Nwapa 

Florence Nwanzurahu Nkiru Nwapa — more commonly known as Flora Nwapa,  is celebrated as the mother of modern African literature and has inspired a generation of female writers in Nigeria. Her work confronted and reshaped the stereotypical narratives of African women in a predominantly male literary landscape.

At 35, Nwapa released her first globally acclaimed novel Efuru, which was published in 1966. This book was the first internationally published work by a Nigerian woman in the English language. The novel tells the story of a young wife named Efuru, who embarks on a journey to carve out her independence in the face of traditional beliefs of Igbo society.

Her novels serve as a powerful counter-narrative to the stereotypes perpetuated by male authors on African women, instead celebrating the success and resilience of African women. In Nwapa’s novel One is Enough, Amaka embarks on a journey of self-discovery after her husband reveals his intention to take another wife after six years of marriage, leaving her heartbroken. Choosing to leave the security of her home. She moves to Lagos to pursue her dream of becoming a successful businesswoman, the plot unfolds from there.

In 1974 the late author established Tana Press, becoming the first African woman to own an independent publishing press.

2. Balaraba Ramat Yakubu 

Balaraba Ramat Yakubu is a prominent writer in northern Nigeria, and the first female Hausa language author to have her work translated into English. She is also one of the pioneers of the literacy subgenre and movement referred to as “Littattafan Soyayya,” which translates to  “love literature” or “books of love” from Hausa.
Yakubu’s life experiences have greatly influenced her writing. During her childhood, she was married off as a child bride at ages 12 and 15, with both marriages ending in divorce and her returning to her family home. Yakubu remained determined to pursue her education. With her mother’s support, she attended adult education classes while secretly learning to read and write.

Her book Wa Zai Auri Jahila (which translates to ‘Who Will Marry an Ignorant Woman’) published in 1990, is inspired by her experiences as a child bride survivor. It tells the story of a 13-year-old girl forced to marry an older man who, like Yakubu, ultimately finds empowerment through education. The book critiques child marriage and advocates for girls’ education, highlighting issues that were prevalent during Yakubu’s childhood in Kano, Nigeria. Now 67, Yakubu continues to advocate against injustices faced by women in northern Nigeria. As a strong advocate for women’s rights in the region, she also coordinates trauma counselling at the Murtala Mohammed Foundation.

 

3. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is a highly acclaimed Nigerian author and feminist. Her compelling storytelling and advocacy for gender equality have garnered her worldwide recognition. Through her influential work, such as Half of a Yellow Sun, Americanah, and Purple Hibiscus, she has inspired millions around the globe.

Adichie’s second novel, Half of a Yellow Sun, which was published in 2006, delves into various themes and topics such as race, culture, colonialism, war, and politics to name a few. The novel was later adapted into a film in 2013, starring Thandiwe Newton, Genevieve Nnaji, John Boyega, and Chiwetel Ejiofor.

In her novels, Adichie explores social equity-related themes while also exploring the human condition. Her books often feature complex female characters that are multi-dimensional and outspoken, that challenge gender stereotypes.

Adichie delivered her now-iconic TED talk titled: “We Should All Be Feminists,” where she shared her vision for a more equitable world. Beyoncé sampled Adichie’s feminist speech in her 2013 single “Flawless.” Additionally, the speech was later adapted into a book with the same title, in 2014. In 2015, this book was given to every 16-year-old high school student in Sweden. The speech and book have helped spark important conversations about equality and feminism.

4. Abi Daré

Abi Daré is a globally recognised Nigerian-British author, originally from the vibrant city of Lagos, Nigeria, but raised in Essex, England. Her first novel, The Girl with the Louding Voice was published in 2020 to critical acclaim and put Daré on the map.

This coming-of-age novel follows Adunni, a 14-year-old girl from a poor family, in a small town near Lagos. Despite her desire to pursue an education, her family’s financial hardship holds her back. Her situation worsens when her father removes her from school and arranges for her to be the third wife to an older man. This unfortunate marriage leads to abuse, prompting her to escape to Lagos. There, she finds employment as a housemaid for a rich family. Sadly in this household, she experiences abuse and exploitation. Despite these challenges, Adunni remains determined to receive an education, believing that knowledge is her path to freedom from oppression.

The inspiration behind the book came to Daré after she read a news article about a young maid who suffered at the hands of her employer. As well as drawing from her own experiences living in rural Nigeria and inspired by her daughters, Daré dedicated three years to writing this powerful novel. In this novel, she chose to incorporate elements of Pidgin English to authentically capture her characters’ voices.

When she is not writing, Daré is a strong advocate for girls’ education and inspiring the next generation of Nigerian women authors. In 2023, she founded the Louding Voice Education and Empowerment Foundation, a non-profit which provides scholarships to girls in rural Nigeria.

5. Tomi Adeyemi 

Popular fantasy storytelling has been shaped by white people and white characters. Consider The Lord of the Rings, The Chronicles of Narnia, Harry Potter and Twilight. Yet, fantasy and mythology extend far beyond Western cultural boundaries. For instance, Nigeria has a vibrant literacy heritage, deeply rooted in folklore and mythology.

One prominent author in this space is Tomi Adeyemi, a Nigerian-American writer known for bringing West African mythology to the fantasy genre. Her debut novel, Children of Blood and Bone, published in 2018 when she was 24, became an instant bestseller and blossomed into a trilogy. The Legacy of Orïsha trilogy, which also includes Children of Virtue and Vengeance and Children of Anguish and Anarchy, has sold three million copies and spent 175 weeks on the New York Times Bestseller list.

In 2022, Paramount announced a film adaptation deal with Adeyemi for the series to be turned into three films. The first film, based on Children of Blood and Bone (the first book from the trilogy), is set to be released on Jan. 15, 2027, with a star-studded cast.

The young adult fantasy novel is set in the mythical African Kingdom of Orïsha and follows a 17-year-old headstrong female protagonist named Zélie Adebola. Zélie’s quest is to restore magic to the land of Orïsha and overthrow its oppressive rulers. 

Adeyemi was sparked by her Nigerian roots and a fellowship trip to Brazil, where she studied West African culture and mythology to kick off the series. In a local gift shop, she saw beautiful depictions of African gods and goddesses. This experience was pivotal in shaping her novel.

Through her novels, Adeyemi bravely addresses challenging topics such as police brutality, the politics surrounding black hair, racism, colonialism, gender-based violence and social justice. They also take inspiration from the events of the Black Lives Matter movement in the US.

6. Chinelo Okparanta

Chinelo Okaparanta’s interest and confidence in writing at a young age was bolstered when she won a citywide essay contest in Boston at just 11 years old.

As an adult, she dove into fiction writing and honed her skills through creative writing classes in graduate school at Rutgers University.

Okparanta is renowned for her novels, including,  Runs Girl, Happiness, Like Water, Under the Udala Trees and Harry Sylvester Bird. She has received numerous awards such as the O. Herney Award in 2014 and the Lambda Literacy Award, which she won twice.

Born in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, Okparanta lived there until she was 10 years old when her family immigrated to the United States. This duality of homeland influences her novels. For instance her books, Under the Udala Trees and Happiness, Like Water are primarily set in Nigeria, while Harry Sylvester Bird is mainly set in rural Pennsylvania and New York.

Under the Udala Trees follows Ijeoma, a Christian Igbo girl who, after her father died in the Biafran War, is sent to live with a family friend. There she meets Amina, a Muslim, orphan Hausa girl, they form a friendship that quickly grows into romance. When their relationship is discovered they are forced to separate and confront the harsh realities and challenges posed by societal taboos at the time against LGBTQ+ love.

This novel sheds light on Okaparanta’s ongoing commitment to highlighting the lives of the LGBTQ+ community in her home country Nigeria, particularly in light of the 2014 Nigerian law signed by former President Goodluck Jonathan, which criminalized same-sex relationships.

Past and Present Nigerian women authors have significantly impacted the literature scene both in Nigeria and globally by examining womanhood and addressing social issues that keep the world from achieving true gender equality. Supporting and engaging with their works fosters critical dialogue on women’s rights and representation, a discussion that’s more pertinent than ever right now.

 

 

Credit: Global Citizen

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Women & Business

Polaris Bank to Empower Female-Owned Businesses with N1bn Loans

by Women Times on

In a move towards fostering gender equality, inclusiveness and economic empowerment, Polaris Bank has announced the disbursement of business support loans to female-owned businesses in the first quarter of 2023. This is part of the Bank’s commitment to supporting women and female-owned businesses through the provision of soft loans.

 

According to the Bank, the disbursement of the loans which impacted close to 20,000 beneficiaries across different sectors, is aimed at addressing the existing financing gap and providing a vital boost to female entrepreneurs. This is expected to help them to thrive, expand their operations, and contribute to the nation’s economic growth.

 

The sectors impacted include: Transportation; Agriculture; Education; Construction; Engineering; General Commerce; Health; Hotel & Leisure; Manufacturing and Media.

 

Part of the major selling point for the loan at Polaris Bank are quick turnaround time, instant disbursement, Flexible Terms and Conditions, Competitive pricing, Financial Education and Mentorship, amongst other value adding features. Polaris Bank envisions a future where female-owned businesses play an increasingly influential role in driving economic progress, innovation, and job creation. The bank firmly believes that empowering women entrepreneurs will contribute to a more prosperous and equitable society.

 

Within the quarter, the Bank also celebrated the International Women’s day (IWD) with a well-attended webinar titled: Advancing Women Empowerment through the Adoption of Technological Innovation and Digital Education”. During the webinar, availability of a single digit interest loan was re-echoed to women entrepreneurs that meet the set criteria. This is in line with Polaris Bank’s commitment to the Nigerian Sustainable Banking Principles.

 

Speaking on the development, Polaris Bank’s Group Head, Brand Management and Corporate Communication, Nduneche Ezurike, said, “At Polaris Bank, we are dedicated to building an inclusive economy that fosters opportunities for all. We recognize the immense talent and potential of women entrepreneurs and understand the challenges they face. Through our women and female-owned business loan window, we aim to break down barriers and provide the financial support necessary for businesses being run by women to flourish.”

 

Women entrepreneurs interested in scaling their business to the next level are encouraged to visit Polaris Bank’s website, www.polarisbanklimited.com or contact any of the Bank’s nearest branch to learn more about the application process and eligibility criteria.

 

Polaris Bank was adjudged Digital Bank of the Year in 2021 and 2022 in BusinessDay’s Banks And Other Financial Institutions Award (BAFI). It also emerged as the best MSME Bank because of its ability to use technology to enable bottom-up support to the MSME sector.

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Women & Business

Women’s Cooperative Revolving Fund with Basic Business and Life Skills Transforms Livelihoods for Better

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UN Women in collaboration with SOS Sahel Ethiopia has been applying the approach to four cooperatives and enterprises of 200 members, which comprise more than 1000 family members

According to Fantu Alemayehu, a young woman member of a saving and credit cooperative established  in Galan town,  a peri-urban area in Oromia region of Ethiopia, the 3000 birr equivalent of 86USD she borrowed three years ago along the training she received on Basic Business and Life Skills meant a turning point for the better life her family and herself are in today.   Fantu explains, “Sixteen years ago I dropped out of school from grade eight and  migrated from a rural area in Northern Ethiopia,  Gojam to Addis Ababa seeking for a better life.  I worked as a housekeeper for eight years earning only 70birr per month. When I didn’t see improvement in my life, I got married. Although my husband is a supportive one, his little income from provision of cart transport service to the villagers, was not enough to meet our basic needs.”

When the Gender Transformative Climate Smart Agriculture and Agri–Business (CSAAB) program launched by UN Women and SOS Sahel Ethiopia in  Galan town, Fantu became among the beneficiaries.  As a result, she says that not only hers and her family’s livelihoods have changed, she also became a model woman in her village for effectively using the loan and the skills she acquired, “When I received 3000 birr, during the rainy season I bought Gurage cabbage seedlings, which has a high demand in the community, and planted in my garden. The 10,000birr income from sale of the cabbage, the seedlings, and the dry seeds,  was the turning point for me and my family’s living conditions improvement. After I paid back the 3,000birr loan, I used part of the 7,000birr to invest in sheep fattening for sale.  Today, I am no longer dependent on my husband’s income to purchase what  I need. For instance, because of the labour and fuel saving Injera baker I bought, the smoke from the old baker is no more affecting my health.”

Being economically  empowered  not only enabled Fantu to support her existing family in a better way, she also realized her dream of having a second child, “When I gave birth to my first child six years ago, the burden on the little income increased and my husband and myself used to struggle for survival. When our livelihood improved,  we decided to have the second child and it has been only 50 days  since I gave birth.”

As a model woman in her community, Fantu was awarded  25,000birr  on business award competition  for successfully using the 3,000birr loan and  timely repaying.  This motivated her  to expand her business  and  to contribute more to her community,  “ Since I became beneficiary of the program, I have saved 40,000birr including the award.  If I sale the six sheep I currently own, I  estimate to have  50,000birr more and  my  short-term plan is to purchase  goats and fatten for sale as they take shorter time to  breed. My support to the women in the community will continue by sharing my experiences and by providing them with improved Gurage  cabbage seedlings.”  Fantu added that her  husband,  Buziye Yibeltal is one of the reasons behind her success. He supports her in the household duties including cooking after he took the training on Male Engagement and  Gender Model family offered under the program.

UN Women in collaboration with SOS Sahel Ethiopia has been applying the approach to four cooperatives and enterprises of 200 members, which comprise more than 1000 family members. The cooperative  in Galan town has fifty four  members.  A weekly contribution of  100birr  by  each member has reached their saving to 190,000birr. This is enabling more members to borrow from the revolving fund and  to invest in various businesses to improve theirs and their families’ livelihoods.

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Women & Business

Airtel Restates Commitment to Bridging Gender Divide, Launches Airtel Women Network

by Women Times on

Airtel Nigeria has reinforced its commitment to driving gender equity as they launched the Airtel Women network at Airtel Headquarters on Thursday, 30th March 2023.

Former Securities and Exchange Commission boss, Arunma Oteh, led the conversation as the keynote speaker, on the theme “Empowering Global Leaders”, where she shared her experience and lectured female employees on becoming global leaders.

Chief Executive Director, Krishna Menon, who was represented by the Director of Airtel Business, Ogo Ofomata, described Airtel Women Network as a coaching platform to empower and mentor women to become global leaders while breaking stereotypes and closing gender gaps.

“We are an equal opportunity employer and it is embedded in our DNA to be fair, just and respectful. Airtel is committed to women advancement and achievements, both internally and externally, and out of many other initiatives, we have recently demonstrated this through our premium social investment platform ‘Airtel Touching Lives. Through ‘Airtel Touching Lives’, we have not only provided relief and succor to thousands of Nigerians but we have also thrown our full weight behind the Nigerian woman, helping them own their craft and even empowering women in technology” she said.

Also speaking at the event, Director, Human Resources, Airtel Nigeria, Adebimpe Ayo-Elias, said, “Over the years Airtel women have contributed immensely to the success of the organizations and Airtel recognizes this and is committed to ensuring that the women thrive. We are currently at 25% and our target is to grow women’s representation at top-level management to 30% before the end of the year. To generally drive women inclusion, especially in technology, part of what Airtel has done is to promote digital financial inclusion by registering and training women as Smartcash PSB agents, at no cost”.

Aunmanh Oteh, while delivering her keynote speech and interacting with the employees, commended the brand for driving gender equity and also commended the male employees of Airtel for supporting women to launch of Airtel Women Network.
“The ability of any brand like Airtel to bring innovations like this means that they can do better than the others. I like that Airtel is being intentional about women empowerment and they recognize that they are not doing women a favor, rather empowering women is good for the business”, she concluded.

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