The First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, has underscored the importance of mainstreaming women in climate change activities, especially in the Great Green Wall project.
Tinubu made this submission while inaugurating the Green Women Platform (GWP) at the 9th Session of the Council of Ministers under the Pan African Agency for the Great Green Wall on Friday in Abuja.
The first lady, who was represented by the wife of the Vice President, Nana Shettima, described women as indispensable personalities for preserving the environment and advancing the cause of sustainability.
According to her, the role of women in the Great Green Wall initiative is driven by a shared commitment among African nations to address critical environmental and social challenges facing the Sahel region.
”The Sahel land, stretching across Africa, has been severely impacted by desertification and climate change.
“I am honored to have the opportunity to draw attention to a critical aspect of this initiative—the Great Green Women platform.
“This remarkable endeavor serves as a testimony to women’s vital role in promoting a greener and more prosperous Africa.
“The Green Women Platform Initiative is a program initiative by the pan-African agency of the Great Green World.’’
She said that the initiative aimed to empower women living within the Sahara region by promoting gender inclusivity and utilizing the roles of society, culture, and the economy to create a supportive environment for women’s prosperity.
The first lady said that the Green Women Platform initiative sought to provide a dedicated platform for women to actively engage and contribute to the broad objectives of the Great Green Wall.
“The initiative aims to empower women, enhance their skills, and encourage community participation in preserving and restoring the environment.
“The program strives to collectively contribute to realizing the Great Green Wall’s vision by bringing together a network of independent and capable women. It is essential to recognize the incredible spirit of women in our communities,” she said.
Applauding the women folk, she said that in spite of facing numerous challenges in the Sahel region, women had emerged as the champions of change.
According to the first lady, the Green Women Platform is a tribute to resilience, strengths, and wherever it leads to protecting the environment.
On his part, President of the African Development Bank, Akinwumi Adeshina, said the bank would continue to support initiatives that would empower and better the lives of women in the country.
