Reducing GBV encourages women’s uninhibited participation in public life – Ayibanegiyefa

Hon. Ayibanegiyefa Egba is a member of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, representing Yenagoa Constituency 1. She is also the chairman of the House Committee on Women, Children, and Social Development. In this interview with ENE OSHABA she speaks on her political journey and one year as a legislator.

As a member of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly what is your responsibility to the constituency you represent?

My constituency, Yenagoa Constituency 1, is situated within the Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa state, a region that has always been close to my heart.
My role primarily involves advocating for the welfare and rights of women and children within my constituency and across the state.

My constituency falls under Yenagoa Local Government Area, a region rich in culture and potential. As a representative, my mission is to ensure that the voices of my constituents are heard and their needs are met through effective legislative actions and community-driven initiatives.

Can you speak on some of your achievements as a lawmaker?

I assumed this position on June 7, 2023 and since taking office, I have been deeply committed to effecting positive change in the lives of the people in my constituency.

My achievements are numerous, and they encompass various sectors that touch the lives of men, women, and children alike. One of my primary focuses has been on influencing and nominating individuals for political appointments at both the state and local government levels.

These appointments are not just about filling positions; they are about ensuring that the right people, both men and women, have the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the development of our state.

Furthermore, I have been instrumental in recommending several individuals for job and scholarship opportunities. Recognising the importance of education and employment as pillars of societal growth, I have worked tirelessly to secure job placements for numerous individuals in both government offices and the private sector. Education is a key driver of progress, and by providing scholarships, I am investing in the future leaders of our state.

Conflict resolution has also been a significant part of my work. Yenagoa, like many other regions, has its share of community conflicts and crises. I have taken it upon myself to mediate in these situations, ensuring that peace and harmony are restored. This is essential for the continued development of our constituency.

Empowerment programmes for young people is another cornerstone of my achievements. I believe that the youth are the future of our nation, and by empowering them, we are securing a better tomorrow. These programmes have ranged from skill acquisition initiatives to financial support for budding entrepreneurs.

In addition to supporting the youth, I have also placed a strong emphasis on assisting older women in our community. Many of these women have been the backbone of our society, running small businesses and contributing to the local economy. I have provided them with financial support to expand their businesses and improve their livelihoods.

Education is another area where I have made significant contributions. I have given financial support to students in higher institutions from my constituency, ensuring that they have the resources they need to complete their studies. Education is a powerful tool for breaking the cycle of poverty, and by investing in our youth, we are building a brighter future for our community.

Social cohesion is vital for any community’s growth. I have actively participated in social and cultural activities that bring our people together. These activities foster a sense of unity and belonging, which is essential for the overall well-being of our society.

Gender equality and women’s participation in politics have been central themes in my work. I have advocated for and promoted the involvement of women in politics, recognising that their voices are crucial in decision-making processes. By using my influence to reduce gender-based violence in my constituency, I am ensuring that women can participate in public life without fear of discrimination or violence.

So, have you sponsored any bill or championed legislative efforts to specifically address challenges women face?

In my role as a legislator, I have sponsored several bills and championed legislative efforts aimed at addressing the challenges faced by women in Yenagoa Constituency 1. One of the key legislation I have been involved in is the ‘Women’s Empowerment and Gender Equality Bill’ which seeks to ensure that women have equal access to resources, opportunities, and decision-making processes.

This bill has already begun to make a positive impact by promoting gender equality in all spheres of life, including politics, education, and the workplace.

I have been a strong advocate for the ‘Anti-Domestic Violence Bill’ which provides legal protection for women and children who are victims of domestic violence. This bill aims to curb the menace of domestic violence by providing victims with the necessary legal and psychological support to overcome their ordeals. Since its passage, there has been a noticeable reduction in reported cases of domestic violence in our constituency.

Since assuming office on June 7, 2023, as the member representing Yenagoa Constituency 1 and following my appointment as the chairman  House Committee on Women, Children, and Social Development, I have prioritised legislative efforts that directly address the challenges faced by women in my constituency.

One of my key initiatives include the introduction and support of bills aimed at protecting women’s rights and ensuring their socio-economic empowerment.

A significant legislative effort I championed was the Women’s Empowerment and Equal Rights Bill. This bill seeks to eliminate discriminatory practices against women in Bayelsa state, particularly in areas of employment, education, and political participation.

By advocating for equal rights, this bill has helped ensure that women have access to the same opportunities as men, thereby leveling the playing field.

Additionally, I have been instrumental in pushing for the Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Prevention and Response Bill. This legislation is designed to address the alarming rates of violence against women in Bayelsa state. The bill provides for the establishment of shelters for victims, a support fund, and stricter penalties for perpetrators of violence. By championing this bill, I have contributed in creating a safer environment for women in Yenagoa Constituency 1, and empowering them to pursue their goals without fear of violence.

Furthermore, my advocacy for the Women’s Political Participation Enhancement Act has been pivotal. This Act mandates that a certain percentage of political appointments in Bayelsa state be reserved for women. By ensuring that women have a seat at the decision-making table, this initiative has significantly increased female representation in politics, giving women a stronger voice in shaping policies that affect their lives.

These legislative efforts have had a profound impact on the lives of women in my constituency by addressing issues such as discrimination, violence, and underrepresentation. I have helped to create an environment where women can thrive, participate fully in society, and contribute to the development of their communities.

Have you done anything on economic empowerment for women in your constituency?
Economic empowerment is a cornerstone of my agenda for the women of Yenagoa Constituency 1. Understanding that financial independence is crucial for women to break free from cycles of poverty and dependency, I have initiated several programmes designed to enhance their entrepreneurial skills and overall economic standing.

One of the flagship programmes I introduced is the Women in Entrepreneurship and Small Business Support Initiative. This programme provides financial grants and micro-loans for women entrepreneurs, particularly those involved in small-scale businesses like retail, agriculture, and artisanal crafts. The initiative also offers training workshops on financial literacy, business management, and digital marketing, enabling women to scale their businesses and increase their income. Through this programme, many women in Yenagoa Constituency 1 have been able to start or expand their businesses, contributing to the local economy and improving their families’ livelihoods.

In addition to financial support, I have spearheaded skills acquisition and vocational training programme for women. This programme focuses on equipping women with practical skills in areas such as tailoring, hairdressing, catering, and soap-making. These skills not only empower women to start their businesses but also open up employment opportunities in the private sector. By providing them with the tools they need to succeed, I am helping to reduce the unemployment rate among women in my constituency.

Furthermore, I have collaborated with local banks and financial institutions to create the Women’s Cooperative Societies Fund. This fund allows women to pool resources together and access larger capital for their businesses at lower interest rates. The cooperative model has been highly successful in fostering a spirit of collaboration and mutual support among women entrepreneurs, leading to increased business success and economic resilience.

These economic empowerment programmes have had a transformative impact on the women in my constituency. By enhancing their financial independence and entrepreneurial skills, these initiatives have enabled women to contribute more effectively to their families and communities, fostering economic growth and reducing poverty in Yenagoa Constituency 1.

What steps have you taken to improve access to education for women and girls?
Education is a powerful tool for empowerment, and I have made it a priority to ensure that women and girls in Yenagoa Constituency 1 have access to quality education. Recognising the barriers that often prevent girls from attending school, I have implemented several initiatives to improve access to education and ensure that these efforts are sustainable and impactful.

One of the key initiatives I launched is the Girls’ Education Support Programme. This programme provides scholarships to girls from low-income families, covering tuition fees, school supplies, and uniforms. By removing the financial barriers to education, this program has enabled many girls to stay in school and pursue their academic dreams. Additionally, the programme includes mentorship components where successful women professionals mentor young girls, providing guidance and inspiration for their educational and career aspirations.

I have also been involved in advocating for the implementation of the Compulsory Basic Education Law in Bayelsa state. This law mandates that all children, particularly girls, must complete at least nine years of basic education.

To support this, I have worked closely with local schools to improve infrastructure, ensuring that learning environments are conducive to education. This includes building new classrooms, providing learning materials, and ensuring that schools are staffed with qualified teachers.

To make these initiatives sustainable, I have established partnerships with various non- governmental organisations (NGOs) and international organisations focused on girls’ education. Through these collaborations, we have secured additional funds and resources to expand educational programs and reach more girls in remote areas. I have also advocated for the integration of digital learning tools into the curriculum, which not only enhances the learning experience but also prepares girls for the digital economy.

In addition, I have initiated community awareness campaigns aimed at changing cultural attitudes towards girls’ education. These campaigns emphasize the long-term benefits of educating girls, not only for their personal development but also for the economic and social progress of the community. By involving traditional leaders, parents, and community members in these campaigns, we have seen a significant increase in support for girls’ education.

These efforts have significantly improved access to education for women and girls in Yenagoa Constituency 1. By ensuring that girls receive the education they deserve, we are laying the foundation for a more empowered and enlightened generation of women who can contribute meaningfully to society.

How are you addressing health issues affecting women?

Women’s health and wellbeing are critical areas of focus in my work as the representative of Yenagoa Constituency 1. Understanding that women face unique health challenges, I have implemented several initiatives to address issues such as maternal health, access to reproductive healthcare, and combating gender-based violence (GBV).

One of the primary initiatives I launched is the Maternal Health Improvement Programme. This aims to reduce maternal mortality rates by providing access to quality antenatal and postnatal care.

We have partnered with local health centers to offer free maternal health services, including routine check-ups, vaccinations, and safe delivery kits.

In addition, we have trained community health workers to provide home-based care for pregnant women, ensuring that they receive the necessary support throughout their pregnancy and childbirth.

To improve access to reproductive healthcare, I have advocated for the establishment of Women’s Health Clinics within the constituency. These clinics offer a range of services, including family planning, sexual health education, and screenings for cervical and breast cancer. By making these services accessible and affordable, we are helping women make informed decisions about their reproductive health, which is essential for their overall wellbeing.

Combating gender-based violence has also been a top priority for me. I spearheaded the GBV Prevention and Support Initiative, which includes the establishment of safe spaces for survivors of violence, a 24-hour helpline, and counseling services.

Additionally, I have worked with local law enforcement to ensure that cases of GBV are taken seriously and that perpetrators are brought to justice. Through public awareness campaigns, we have also educated communities about the importance of speaking out against GBV and supporting survivors.

Furthermore, I have been a strong advocate for the Women’s Mental Health Programme. It provides mental health services, including counseling and therapy, for women who have experienced trauma, stress, or depression.

Mental health is often overlooked, but it is a crucial aspect of overall health, and I am committed to ensuring that women in my constituency have access to the care they need.

By addressing these health issues, I am working to create a constituency where women’s health is prioritised, and where they can live healthy, productive lives. These initiatives have already made a significant impact, improving the quality of life for women in Yenagoa Constituency 1.

Do you engage women in your constituency to get feedback and how has the information shaped your agenda?

Engaging with the women in my constituency is crucial to ensuring that the initiatives and policies I implement are relevant and effective. I believe that the best way to serve my constituency is by listening to the voices of the people, particularly women, who are often underrepresented in decision-making processes.

One of the primary ways I gather feedback is through the Women’s Constituency Forum, a platform where women from various backgrounds can come together to discuss issues affecting them. This forum meets regularly, allowing me to hear directly from women about their concerns, needs, and aspirations.

The forum has been instrumental in highlighting issues such as access to healthcare, economic empowerment, and educational opportunities for girls.

Additionally, I have initiated several town hall meetings and community visits, specifically targeted at women. These gatherings are informal and inclusive, encouraging open dialogue and ensuring that every woman, regardless of her social or economic status, has the opportunity to voice her opinions. Through these interactions, I have been able to understand the unique challenges that women in rural and urban areas face and tailor my policies to address them effectively.

Furthermore, I have established a Women’s Advisory Council within my constituency. This council comprises women leaders, educators, health workers, and entrepreneurs who meet with me regularly to provide insights and recommendations. Their input has been invaluable in shaping policies that promote women’s health, support female entrepreneurs, and enhance educational opportunities for girls. For example, based on the council’s feedback, I launched a microfinance initiative aimed at empowering women-led businesses in my constituency, which has already seen significant success.

Their input has directly influenced my legislative agenda. For instance, after hearing from women about the difficulties they face in accessing maternal healthcare, I prioritised the introduction of bills aimed at improving healthcare services for women, particularly in remote areas.

Additionally, concerns raised about gender-based violence led to my active involvement in pushing for stricter enforcement of laws protecting women and children, and the creation of safe spaces within the community.

These engagements have not only shaped my policy decisions but have also fostered a stronger sense of community among the women in my constituency. By actively involving them in the decision-making process, I ensure that the initiatives we implement are truly reflective of their needs and aspirations, leading to more sustainable and impactful outcomes.