Worried by the prevailing economic challenges in the country, a non-governmental organisation (NGO), “Off The Hook Foundation For Rural Dwellers” has taken bold steps to alleviate the plight of over 20,000 widows in Imo communities with food items, mentoring, advocacy, clothing and shelter.
According to the founder, HRM Ugoeze Chigbo Nwamara, the foundation, established a decade ago, has equipped more than 5,000 widows with practical skills, leading many to establish thriving businesses and achieve financial independence.
“A stand point achievement was in 2018 when the ‘Off The Hook Foundation’ in partnership with USAID trained and empowered 108 young widows out of 2,000 in attendance who received sewing machines, baking equipment and much more, allowing them to launch successful businesses, many of which are flourishing today.”
Ugoeze Nwamara, the wife of the traditional ruler of Umueze Chokoneze community, Ezinihitte Mbaise council area, HRH Eze Mike Nwamara, disclosed this at a ceremony marking the 2025 International Widows’ Day and the 10th year of her foundation’s humanitarian service held at the palace of the monarch.
Speaking at the ceremony which had the theme “Innovation and Technology for Gender Equality” during which 100 young widows were empowered said, “We have provided assistance to our youths by helping them with school fees and registration for WASC examinations ensuring they have access to education and opportunity for a brighter future and we have constructed safe housing for vulnerable widows and the elderly.”
Ugoeze Nwamara stressed that the organisation’s medical outreach, in collaboration with its partner Medical and Humanitarian Aide for Africa (MAHAFA), had provided free healthcare services to over 5,000 widows.
While assuring that her NGO is committed to expanding its services, Ugoeze Nwamara said, “Let us unite in our efforts to create a world where no woman suffers in silence, no elder is left behind and every youth is given the opportunity to thrive.
“Together, we can restore dignity, rebuild lives and foster an inclusive environment for the benefit of society”.
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