The training was part of the UNDP Women Leadership Project, themed: ‘The capacity Building For Aspiring Female Leaders / Candidates on the Grassroots Mobilizations and Campaign Strategies.”
At the event held in Basse, Thomas Kimaru, leader UNDP Women Leadership Project, described the training as crucial in preparing women for leadership positions.
He acknowledged the low participation of women in politics, saying to increase number of women in leadership positions, there is need for more education and advocacy.
He acknowledged that women need support to occupy leadership positions in society, reminding that women occupying leadership positions is not a favour, but a right.
“It is our responsibility to support that right to move progressively.” he added.
Abubacarr Danjo, vice chairperson of Basse Area Council (BSAC), equally underscored the importance of the training as it provides knowledge for grassroot mobilisation and campaign for women leadership positions.
Yusupha Bojang, Chief Civic Education Officer of NCCE, said the training was designed to arm participants with the necessary skills and strategies.
Bojang maintained that aspiring female candidates need to win elections in the coming electoral cycle.
He thus urged the trainees to take the skills and knowledge learned beyond the confines of the training hall.
“We want you to contest education and win.” he stressed.
Fatou Cham, National Assembly Member for Sanementereng Constituency, acknowledged that women are neglected in occupying leadership positions in the country, as seen in the level of their under-representation in parliament.
She said women need to be in leadership positions. ‘But we need hear the voices of women in the country.’ she said.
