The meaningful participation of women in national, local, and community leadership roles has become an important focus of global development policy.
Yet, many people ask why it matters if women become political leaders, elected policymakers, or civil society activists.
Why does the world need more women involved in all aspects of the political process? Women’s political participation results in tangible gains for democracy, including greater responsiveness to citizen needs, increased cooperation across party and ethnic lines, and a more sustainable future.
The likes of Ngozi Okonjo Iweala, and Ezekwesili defined the importance of women in Politics. Here in Ikwuano, the likes of Ezinne Ngozi Orji made changed the narratives about women’s participation in politics.
Women’s participation in politics helps advance gender equality and affects both the range of policy issues that get considered and the types of solutions that are proposed.
Research indicates that women legislators make a more distinct impact on policy priorities than their male counterparts. There is also strong evidence that as more women are elected to office, there is a corollary increase in policymaking that emphasizes quality of life and family improvement.
According to the World Economic Forum, “Rwanda is a surprise leader in female political participation. It ranks at the top of the list of countries with the most female MPs: 49 out of 80.”
In the UK, the Youth Parliament is open to teenagers who want to use their voices creatively for social change.
Kosovo celebrated its first female president in 2011, with former president Atifete Jahjaga. Female authority became the voice of those who did not have it.
Jahjaga helped young women dream big in their country and inspired them to think that the sky is the limit, if you are committed, you work hard and you put your heart into it.
In the United States, younger women have been elected to Congress like Tulsi Gabbard and Kyrsten Sinema. Both arrived at their position at the age of 30.
Women are closing the gender gap in health and education around the world, but significant gender inequality persists in politics. Democracy is not democratic without equality, while women in politics suffer violence and intimidation.
It’s therefore time to change the narratives for our Good people of Ikwuano, as the first female aspirant for Ikwuano State Constituency presents herself to Serve her people.
Maryann Uzoma Osuh is the answer to good leadership, transparency, and emancipation of Ikwuano.
She is pragmatic, energetic, young, and talented.
UMUNWAYI NDE IKWUANO, Bikonu take this advantage and show your worth, You people can do better