By Ibrahim Hassan-Wuyo

Stakeholders, women leaders, and development partners have called for greater inclusion of women in leadership and governance during the Southern Kaduna Trailblazing Women Association (SOKATWA) Summit and Fundraising held on Sunday in Kafanchan, Kaduna State.

Mr. Jerry Adams, chairman of the occasion, emphasized that meaningful societal development begins with empowering women, noting their critical role in shaping character within families and communities. He commended the organisers for convening a high-profile gathering and encouraged participants to remain focused, determined, and resilient, stressing that “great achievements often start from humble beginnings.”

Earlier, Mrs. Belinda Augustine Istifanus, President of SOKATWA, described the summit as a defining moment and a mission-driven platform to reposition women as central actors in leadership, governance, and development. She highlighted that, despite their numerical strength and capacity, women in Southern Kaduna remain underrepresented in politics due to limited political awareness and grassroots engagement.

SOKATWA has chosen action over lamentation, participation over self-pity, and leadership over silence, she said, pledging that the association is committed to driving a generational shift that ensures women a strong voice and visibility in decision-making spaces.

Delivering the keynote address, Councillor Abigail Marshall Katung, 130th Lord Mayor of Leeds City, described the summit’s theme, “My Voice, My Choice, My Future,” as timely and inspiring. She encouraged women to take responsibility for shaping their destinies, define the impact they wish to make, and work deliberately towards building lasting legacies. She also challenged men to actively support women’s aspirations.

As Father of the Day, Mr. Abdulmalik Durunguwa cautioned the association against partisan politics and tribal divisions, urging members to remain united and committed to their core objectives.

Speaking further, Mr. Simon Reef Musa described Southern Kaduna women as strong and resilient, calling on them to pursue shared goals, build bridges across communities, attract development, and promote unity.

The summit concluded with a collective call for sustained mentorship, partnerships, and broad-based support from both women and men to translate SOKATWA’s vision into measurable and lasting impact across Southern Kaduna.