The vice president and minister of Women’s Affairs has inaugurated the new National Women’s Council at the Kairaba Beach Hotel. The council consists of women councilors from all around the country.

The council was created by an act of Parliament in 1980 to serve as an advisory body to government on women issues such as gender equality, women’s rights as well as enhancing the economic and social growth of women in the country, especially rural women.

The Vice President Ousainou Darboe assured the council of his office’s unflinching support in making sure that women are empowered politically, socially and economically.

“The newly elected councilors are expected to continue the work of empowering and promoting women issues in the country. The new council has prepared an action plan for the first time in the history of the country. This action plan will serve as a guide to achieving the council’s goals during their tenure,” he said.

The Resident Rep., UNDP, Mrs. Ade Mamonyane Lekoetje, advised the national women’s council to use the opportunity of the new democratic dispensation to further advance women’s agenda and ensure that both government and society are accountable on gender issues.

The inauguration was preceded by a two day training organized by the Women’s Bureau which serves as the secretariat to the Council. Held at the NaNA Conference Hall, the objective of the training was to enhance the skills and knowledge of the NWC on their roles and responsibilities.