Niamey, Niger – RFLD Secretary General, Ms. Bertille Tabiyi Mariam, is leading a crucial 3-day activity (March 2nd-4th, 2024) focused on accelerating Niger’s ratification of the Maputo Protocol. The initiative brings together 20 leading women-led NGOs to collaboratively develop a concrete action plan and roadmap. RFLD Drives Action: Leading Women NGOs in Niger Chart Course for Maputo Protocol Ratification
A Call to Action for Women’s Rights
Held at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Niamey, the workshop centers on empowering civil society organizations (CSOs) to champion the Maputo Protocol. This critical human rights instrument guarantees comprehensive rights for women across Africa. Ratification by Niger is a vital step towards advancing gender equality within the country.
Day 1: Setting the Stage
The opening day establishes the foundation for the workshop. Following introductions and welcoming remarks by Elizabeth Alukudo, Ms. Tabiyi Mariam will delve into the background, rationale, and objectives of the activity. Participants will then adopt the agenda, ensuring a collaborative and productive environment.
The morning session continues with a comprehensive introduction to the Maputo Protocol. Experts will explore its provisions, highlighting its importance in safeguarding women’s rights in Niger. An open forum allows for questions and discussions to deepen understanding.
The afternoon session shifts gears, focusing on the All for Maputo Protocol Initiative. Participants gain insights into the current ratification status among member states and SOAWR’s ongoing efforts to promote ratification across Africa.
Following a brief coffee break, the group delves into a critical group discussion. Participants will collaboratively map out the political, social, and religious factors impacting women’s rights within Niger. This exercise is crucial for understanding potential challenges and opportunities for ratification. The day concludes with discussions on how these factors might influence the process.
Day 2: Building Strategies and Partnerships
Day 2 begins with a recap of the previous day’s discussions. The focus then shifts towards the empowering role of CSOs in securing Maputo Protocol ratification. Ms. Tabiyi Mariam will facilitate a session on this topic, followed by a valuable experience-sharing opportunity for participating NGOs.
Following a refreshing coffee break and a group photo, participants will engage in focused group work sessions. These sessions provide a platform to develop actionable strategies for raising awareness about the Maputo Protocol within Niger.
The afternoon explores the crucial role of government stakeholders in the ratification process. Ms. Tabiyi Mariam will lead a session on effective engagement strategies, followed by another experience-sharing session where CSOs can share their experiences in engaging with government officials.
Continuing the momentum, participants will dive into the development of different advocacy plans during the next group work session. This will be followed by a session exploring collaboration with other stakeholders, such as the media, to amplify awareness efforts.
Day 3: Action Planning and Moving Forward
Day 3 opens with a recap of Day 2, ensuring all participants are on the same page. Ms. Tabiyi Mariam then facilitates the development of a concrete action plan, outlining the specific steps to be taken and the timeline for implementation.
Following a coffee break, Ms. Tabiyi Mariam will lead a session on assigning responsibilities and establishing timelines for the action plan. A group work session allows for further discussion on collaboration and working methods.
The afternoon focuses on capturing key takeaways and summarizing the workshop’s most significant outcomes. Tom Mulisa will facilitate this session, followed by Ms. Tabiyi Mariam leading a discussion on establishing mechanisms for tracking progress and ensuring accountability.
The workshop concludes with closing remarks, outlining the next steps for the participating NGOs and RFLD in their collective pursuit of Maputo Protocol ratification in Niger.
Beyond the Workshop: A Ripple Effect for Change
The 3-day workshop hosted by RFLD serves as a catalyst for a broader movement. The 20 participating women-led NGOs will emerge equipped with the knowledge, strategies, and collaborative spirit necessary to drive meaningful change.
Expected Outcomes:
- A comprehensive action plan: The workshop will culminate in a detailed action plan outlining specific activities, timelines, and responsible parties. This roadmap will guide the participating NGOs in their ongoing efforts to advocate for the Maputo Protocol.
- Enhanced awareness: Through targeted campaigns and outreach efforts, the NGOs will work to raise public awareness about the Protocol’s provisions and its significance for women’s rights in Niger.
- Strategic engagement: The workshop equips the NGOs with effective strategies for engaging with government stakeholders. This will allow them to build crucial partnerships and advocate for the Protocol’s ratification from a position of strength.
- Collaboration and knowledge sharing: The workshop fosters a network of empowered women leaders. The participating NGOs will continue to collaborate, share knowledge, and support each other’s ongoing advocacy efforts.
A Call to Action: Join the Movement
The initiative serves as a powerful example of civil society taking ownership of progress on women’s rights. This workshop is not an isolated event; it is a springboard for sustained action. Here’s how you can get involved:
- Stay informed: Follow RFLD on social media to stay updated on our progress and advocacy efforts.
- Raise awareness: Share information about the Maputo Protocol within your own networks. Talk to friends, family, and colleagues about its importance.
- Contact your government representatives: Urge them to support the ratification of the Maputo Protocol in Niger.
By working together, we can amplify the voices of women in Niger and ensure their fundamental rights are protected. Together, we can make the Maputo Protocol a reality for all women in Niger.
