#IWD: VNDC Empowers Widow, Launches Girls’ Mentorship Club In Gosa Community

Residents of Gosa Community in the Federal Capital Territory have commended the Vaccine Network for Disease Control (VNDC) for improving the living conditions of a vulnerable widow and empowering young girls as part of activities marking this year’s International Women’s Day .

The initiative, tagged “Acts of Kindness 3.0 – Give to Gain,” focused on promoting healthy homes, women’s economic empowerment and mentorship for adolescent girls.

As part of the outreach, VNDC renovated the widow’s single-room apartment, repairing a leaking roof, repainting the room and improving the overall safety and hygiene of the living environment.

In a message to the event, the Chief Executive Officer, VNDC , Mrs Chika Offor said the intervention was aimed at ensuring a healthier and more dignified living space for the beneficiary and her family.

According to her, ”Beyond the renovation, the organisation also provided economic empowerment support to help the widow expand her cassava processing business, with the goal of strengthening her financial stability and improving her capacity to cater for her family.’‘

She explained that safe housing conditions play a critical role in disease prevention and family wellbeing, noting that women are often central to health decisions within households.

Mrs Chika Offor also noted that empowering women economically and supporting girls’ education and leadership development can significantly improve family health outcomes and strengthen community resilience.

While appreciating the gesture, the beneficiary, the widow, Mrs. Ladi Yellow who was filled with heart-warming gratitude prayed God to empower VNDC, she promised to make use of all given to her by the organisation.

Representing the community, the pastor in the community, Rev. Musa Ishaya who commended the initiative, stressed the need for all well-meaning Nigerians to reach out to the less privileged in the society.

On her part, an Artiste and songwriter,  Somadina Onuoha explained that the home represents safety, dignity, and a fresh beginning for the widow who truly deserves it.

According to her, ”Today is a very special day for our community. Today we celebrate more than just a house- we are celebrating care, unity, and the power of a community coming together.”

”What makes today even more meaningful is that this project was supported by the girls’ club, Rising Divas. These young girls are learning something powerful: that their voices matter, their actions matter, and that even at a young age, they can help build a better world.”

Somadina noted that  noted that the Rising Divas is not just about confidence or leadership but about compassion, responsibility, and lifting others .

”To the girls, I hope you are proud of yourselves, and I hope you also realise that this is just the beginning. You are proof that the next generation of leaders are already here,” she added.