Katsina Empowers 7,220 Widows, Others With Cash, Food Items

Katsina Empowers 7,220 Widows, Others With Cash, Food Items

The Katsina State Government has commenced the distribution of cash grants and food items to 7,220 widows and less privileged women across the state as part of its social welfare programme.

The state governor, Dikko Umar Radda, flagged off the initiative at Government House, on Tuesday with the distribution of 25kg bags of rice and ₦10,000 cash support to 840 women from Katsina, Kaita, Rimi, and Batagarawa Local Government.

Radda noted this was part of his administration’s commitment to supporting vulnerable populations.

He stated, “This event marks a significant milestone in our administration’s determination to enhance the social and economic welfare of our people, particularly the most vulnerable among us our cherished widows and less privileged women.

“The empowerment of widows and less privileged women is not just a moral duty, but a social responsibility that our government takes very seriously.

“We recognise the difficult circumstances many of these women face, having lost their loved ones, and we understand the numerous challenges they encounter in their daily lives, including economic hardship and social exclusion.”

He added that the programme was designed to restore dignity, hope and opportunity to widows as well as enable them to thrive and contribute to the growth and development of the State.

“Our administration believes that empowerment is not just about providing financial resources but also about creating sustainable opportunities that will enable beneficiaries to support themselves and their families. In this light, we have designed this initiative to offer more than just temporary relief,” Radda explained further.

The governor acknowledged the collaborative efforts of stakeholders who contributed to the success of the initiative, particularly the Ministries of Religious Affairs, Special Duties, Women Affairs, and Community Development, as well as the Coordination Office.

He charged the beneficiaries to make judicious use of the opportunity.

“The resources and support you have received today should be used wisely to improve your livelihoods and the well-being of your families. Our administration remains committed to supporting you as you work towards lasting success.

“This empowerment programme is just one of many initiatives our government has implemented to reduce poverty, promote inclusiveness, and enhance the quality of life for our people.

“We are determined to build a Katsina State where no one is left behind, and where every individual, regardless of their background or circumstance, is given the opportunity to succeed and thrive,” the governor added.

In his opening remarks, the State Commissioner for Religious Affairs, Ishaq Shehu Dabai, explained that the beneficiaries of the initiative spread across the 34 local government areas of the State, especially the widows.

Dabia added that 20 women were selected for the support from each ward.