By Esther Onyegbula

*TAPESTRY Project stakeholders promote “Give to Gain” theme, call for stronger commitment to gender equality and SRHR

As the world marks International Women’s Day (IWD) 2026, the Saracare Empowerment Foundation (SCAEF), in partnership with Empath Alliance and the Generational Initiative for Women and Youth Network (GIWYN), has called for renewed commitment to empowering women and girls across Nigeria.

The organizations made the call under the TAPESTRY Project, emphasizing that investing in women and girls remains key to achieving gender equality, advancing Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), and building sustainable communities.

International Women’s Day, celebrated globally on March 8, recognizes the achievements, strength, resilience and contributions of women while drawing attention to the persistent gaps in equality and opportunities.

In a statement commemorating the day, SCAEF noted that women continue to play critical roles in families, communities and institutions, even as many still face barriers that limit their full participation and development.

“Women are at the heart of community growth and transformation. When women are empowered through education, opportunities and the freedom to make decisions about their lives, societies flourish. Their voices matter, their dreams matter and their rights must always be protected,” the organization stated.

This year’s theme, “Give to Gain,” underscores the importance of investing in women and girls as a shared responsibility among governments, civil society organizations, institutions and individuals.

According to the partners, meaningful progress in gender equality requires deliberate efforts to promote women’s leadership, protect their rights and expand access to education, healthcare and economic opportunities.

Through the TAPESTRY Project, implemented with support from AmplifyChange, SCAEF, Empath Alliance and GIWYN continue to drive initiatives aimed at amplifying the voices of women and girls, strengthening community support systems and advocating inclusive policies that guarantee dignity, safety and equal opportunities for women.

The organizations also used the occasion to celebrate women who continue to lead, advocate and uplift others despite societal challenges.

“As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we recognize every woman and girl striving for a better future — those leading change in their communities, advocating for justice and making meaningful contributions in different spheres of life. Their courage and resilience remain a powerful force for social progress,” the statement added.

SCAEF and its partners reaffirmed their commitment to expanding programs that empower women and girls and urged stakeholders across sectors to collaborate in ensuring that gender equality becomes a lived reality.

They stressed that when societies “Give to Gain” by investing in women and girls, the benefits extend beyond individuals to families, communities and the nation at large.

The Saracare Empowerment Foundation (SCAEF) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting social justice, gender equality and community development through advocacy, education and empowerment initiatives for vulnerable populations.

TAPESTRY Project

The TAPESTRY Project, implemented by AmplifyChange, Empath Alliance, GIWYN and SCAEF, focuses on strengthening community support systems, advancing gender equality and amplifying the voices of women and girls through advocacy, capacity building and social development programs.