The Southern Kaduna Trailblazing Women Association (SOKATWA) has called on women in the region to take active leadership roles in politics and governance, declaring that the era of women’s exclusion from political participation was over.
Ata press conference in Kaduna, the president of SOKATWA, Mrs Belinda Augustine Istifanus, said the association was formed to unite and empower women from Southern Kaduna to speak with one voice and claim their rightful place in the state’s political and social space.
“For too long, our women have been sidelined in politics. The few who dared to participate have often faced intimidation and humiliation. But today, we are saying no more! The time has come for Southern Kaduna women to lead,” Istifanus stated emphatically.
She explained that SOKATWA has established a robust leadership structure from the state level down to local government and ward levels to ensure that every woman’s voice is heard, from cities to the most remote villages.
According to her, the group’s mission transcends political affiliations. “We are not promoting any particular political party,” she clarified. “Our goal is to support credible candidates, especially women, and help them succeed in elections.”
The association also announced plans for the first-ever Southern Kaduna Women’s Summit, scheduled for December 27, 2025, in Kafanchan. The summit aims to bring together women from all walks of life to strategize, empower one another, and prepare for the 2027 general elections.
SOKATWA used the occasion to encourage women to register and validate their voter’s cards ahead of the elections. “Your voter’s card is your voice, your power, and your right,” Istifanus said. She urged women not only to vote but to mobilize their families and communities to participate in the democratic process.
The group further called on women to aspire to leadership positions, emphasizing that women must not only support candidates but also become candidates. “Women deserve to lead, through elections or appointments. And SOKATWA will stand by every woman who dares to step forward,” she assured.
In a strong statement against gender-based discrimination in politics, the association declared zero tolerance for the humiliation and victimization of women. “Enough is enough.
Women deserve respect, fairness, and dignity,” the statement read.
SOKATWA also appealed for partnerships with NGOs, civil society organisations, and development partners to build a broad coalition for gender inclusion and equality in leadership.
Mrs. Istifanus underscored the group’s vision: “When women lead, families thrive. When women lead, communities prosper. And when women lead, nations are transformed. SOKATWA has come to blaze the trail, and the time is now.”
