The significance of empowered women in rural areas

International Women’s Day is a global celebration of the achievements of women and a call for gender equality. 

Women have historically been subjected to various forms of discrimination and oppression, including being denied the same rights and opportunities as men. However, over the years, women have broken barriers and achieved significant progress in their quest for gender equality. Nonetheless, there is still a long way to go to ensure that women are empowered to the same degree as men.

Women in rural areas have traditionally been marginalized, with limited access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. This has led to a lack of representation in leadership positions, making it difficult for women to have their voices heard in decision-making processes that affect their lives.

However, there have been positive changes in recent years. Governments, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and other stakeholders are increasingly recognizing the importance of empowering women in rural areas.

In many villages, women play a central role in agricultural production, working in fields, raising livestock, and managing the household. Women are often the primary caregivers for children and the elderly, and they also participate in community decision-making processes. Additionally, women in rural areas often engage in entrepreneurial activities, such as running small businesses, selling crafts and products, and providing services to their communities.

Here are some ways in which women are being empowered:

Education: Access to education is essential for women’s empowerment. Governments and NGOs are working to improve access to education for girls in rural areas. This includes building schools, providing scholarships, and improving the quality of education. Education not only provides women with knowledge but also gives them the confidence and skills they need to be successful.

Healthcare: Women’s health is an important aspect of their well-being. Governments and NGOs are working to improve access to healthcare services in rural areas. This includes building healthcare facilities, training healthcare workers, and providing healthcare education. This helps women to stay healthy, take care of their families, and contribute to their communities.

Economic empowerment: Economic empowerment is essential for women’s independence and self-reliance. Governments and NGOs are providing women with access to microfinance, training in business skills, and opportunities to start their own businesses. This helps women to become financially independent and contribute to their communities’ economic growth.

Political participation: Women’s participation in politics is crucial for gender equality. Governments and NGOs are working to increase women’s representation in leadership positions in rural areas. This includes providing training in leadership skills, creating opportunities for women to run for political office, and increasing women’s participation in decision-making processes.

These initiatives have had a positive impact on women in rural areas, but there is still a long way to go. Women in rural areas continue to face significant barriers, including discrimination, gender-based violence, and limited access to resources. Governments, NGOs, and other stakeholders need to continue working to overcome these barriers and create an environment in which women can thrive.

Furthermore, empowered women can serve as role models and mentors for the next generation of girls and women in the village, inspiring them to pursue their own dreams and aspirations. This can help to break down gender stereotypes and create a more equitable society.

International Women’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate the progress that has been made and to call for further action to empower women in rural areas. It is important to recognize the important contributions that women make to their communities and to work towards a future in which women have equal opportunities and are represented in leadership positions.

Photos: divingdeepgoingfar