In celebration of the 2024 International Day of the Girl-Child, the Rotary Club of Abuja, Jabi Lakeside, organized an outreach initiative to support girls in the Kuchingoro community by distributing over 500 packs of reusable menstrual pads. This effort highlights the club’s commitment to improving the lives of young girls who often face challenges during their menstrual periods, which can lead to school absenteeism. The outreach was executed in partnership with the Non-Governmental Organization Slay Dot Com Aid, and included training sessions aimed at teaching the beneficiaries how to produce their own pads. This initiative not only provides immediate assistance but also encourages self-sufficiency among the girls, empowering them to manage their menstrual health independently.
During the outreach event, President Amobi Ogum of the Rotary Club of Abuja, Jabi Lakeside, spoke about the negative consequences of young girls missing school due to menstruation. He emphasized the profound economic implications that such absenteeism can have over time, as it limits the educational and professional opportunities available to them. Ogum expressed his unwavering commitment to supporting the girl-child through various projects and programs designed to build their confidence and capacity to become active members of their communities. This underlines the club’s long-term vision of fostering empowerment and resilience among young girls.
Additionally, the Rotary Club took steps to further empower the community by distributing five sewing machines to selected beneficiaries. Ogum urged the recipients to utilize the machines in a way that benefits not only themselves but also their wider community, rather than selling them for profit. This represents a significant investment in skill development, enabling the girls to learn valuable textile skills that can lead to financial independence and enhance their future employment prospects. The initiative fosters a sense of community and collaboration, with the hope that these young women will contribute positively back to their society.
Mike Ukachi Nwanoshiri, the District Governor of District 9127, attended the event as a special guest and praised the efforts of the Rotary Club of Abuja Jabi Lakeside in empowering young girls. He highlighted girl-child empowerment as a significant focus area of his administration and committed to continuing support for girl-child education in the region. This endorsement reinforces the importance of collaboration among organizations, governmental bodies, and communities in achieving meaningful change and ensuring that girls receive the support they need for their holistic development.
The traditional ruler of Kuchigoro, Chief Ibrahim Wambai, expressed gratitude towards the Rotary Club for their longstanding partnership and continuous support of the community. He acknowledged the various interventions the club has made in enhancing local schools, health centers, and other empowerment initiatives, which have contributed to improving the quality of life for community members. Chief Wambai assured the club that the community would put the grants and resources received to good use, reflecting a commitment to mutual support and development.
In summary, the outreach event organized by the Rotary Club of Abuja, Jabi Lakeside, not only aimed at distributing essential menstrual health products but also focused on fostering independence and empowerment among young girls through skills training and community engagement. The collaborative efforts between the Rotary Club, Slay Dot Com Aid, and local leaders underscore the critical nature of addressing challenges faced by the girl-child, particularly concerning education and health. By investing in the girl-child’s well-being and education, the Rotary Club and its partners are taking crucial steps toward empowering future generations.
