The Office of the First Lady, Edo State Government, has received an invitation for corporate partnership from the Consulate General of the Republic of South Africa. The partnership aims to strengthen developmental ties and advance key sectors of the economy, particularly in empowering youths and women.
This was during a meeting held at the Office of the First Lady, Government House, Benin City.
The Coordinator, Office of the First Lady, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, in her address, commended the representatives and acknowledged the importance of women empowerment and youth development.
Mrs. Anani expressed her enthusiasm for partnering with the Consulate General, highlighting the need to support vulnerable women who have been violated and empowering them through various initiatives. According to her, ‘We deal with vulnerable women. We would love to partner with you, as we have many women who have been violated. Their rights have been severely impacted financially, mentally, and emotionally. We are here to empower them as much as we can.’
She emphasized the importance of mentorship and digital empowerment for women. Stating that plans were being put in place to groom women digitally, where they are empowered in science and technology.
Additionally, Mrs. Anani supported investments in the hospitality sector, where youths can also be empowered and become useful members of society. She also emphasized the need for holistic empowerment, stating, ‘I always say; beyond rehabilitating, bringing them into shelter, what happens afterwards? How do we disabuse their minds? How do we rehabilitate them into the system?’
The Consul General, Consulate General of the Republic of South Africa, Prof. Bobby Moroe, expressed his desire to collaborate with the Edo State Government. He highlighted areas of common interest and mutual benefit, to include ‘youth development programmes, agro-processing and agriculture, science and technology, arts and culture, tourism, and hospitality.’
The Vice Consul, Ms. Busisiwe Dlamini, highlighted the Consulate General’s initiatives focused on empowering women, stating, ‘Our social responsibility is majorly focused on women empowerment.’
She outlined several initiatives that have empowered women and extended an invitation to the South Africa week, an event that promotes social connections through engaging activities like golf, movies, and entertainment.
In attendance were the Chief Protocol, Office of the First Lady, Mrs. Mabel Oboh, All Progressive Congress (APC), Oredo Local Government Women Leader, Mrs. Esther Kolade amongst other dignitaries.
The meeting ended on a note of optimism and mutual commitment, with both parties looking forward to a fruitful partnership that would enhance the lives of women and youths in Edo State.
