The landmark event of the 2024 edition of the August Rally in Imo State has left an indelible mark on the minds of women, highlighting the solidarity and empowerment of women in the modern society. At the event, Barr. (Mrs.) Chioma Uzodimma, the First Lady, welcomed thousands of women from all corners of the state to the Major Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu Square in Owerri. Under the theme “Nwanyị Dị Ike” (A Strong Woman), the event marked a fitting end to a month dedicated to celebrating women’s resilience and strength. The gathering highlighted Barr. Mrs. Uzodimma’s commitment to strengthening the socio-economic position of women, culminating in an impressive announcement of the immediate empowerment of 1,575 women.
The empowerment programme encompassed a range of initiatives, addressing diverse needs within the women community. The support provided included urban SMEs, rural cooperatives, agricultural assistance, and financial assistance to small traders. Targeting over 1,000 rural farmers, Mrs. Uzodimma emphasized a holistic approach to economically empowering women while recognizing their indispensable roles in society. Governor Hope Uzodimma, her husband, reiterated their administration’s unwavering commitment to supporting women empowerment, encouraging them that their challenges are temporary and promising continued efforts to create pathways for their advancement.
In her powerful speech, Ms. Uzodimma deeply connected with the audience by referencing powerful historical events, including the legendary Aba Women’s Revolt of 1929, emphasizing the importance of collective action and resilience in women’s history. She affirmed that this year’s theme, “Nwanyị Dị Ike,” was more than a celebration—serving as a reminder to modern women to tap into their inner strength, aspire to excellence, and face life’s challenges with confidence.
By honoring the legacies of their foremothers, she reminded the assembled women that they hold the power to instigate change and pave the way for bright futures for generations to come.
The event also recognized the government’s crucial role in driving meaningful progress across sectors such as infrastructure, health, education, and agriculture. Mrs. Uzodimma highlighted key achievements in Imo State including improvements in transportation and access to healthcare, which are critical to empowering women in their roles in society.. The administration’s commitment to gender-responsive policies has fostered an inclusive environment where women can thrive, demonstrating initiatives that have provided training, funding, and mentoring for women-led businesses.
Furthermore, Ms. Uzodimma expressed appreciation to the federal government, particularly President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for their dedication to improving the status of women through initiatives such as the Renewed Hope Initiative.
The collaborative efforts between the local and federal governments demonstrate a strong commitment to ensuring that women’s voices are central to all decision-making processes.
This holistic approach is essential to promoting gender equality and encouraging greater female representation in governance and leadership positions.
As the event concluded, the overarching theme was one of unity and collective empowerment. Mrs. Uzodimma called on women to support each other, stressing that when a woman succeeds, she creates opportunities for all.
Through her initiatives, she envisions laying a solid foundation for future generations of women in Imo State, reinforcing the belief that women empowerment contributes to a more prosperous society for all. With this year’s August Gathering, Imo State has not only celebrated the achievements of its women but has also charted an inspiring trajectory for continued growth and support for women empowerment in the future.