Kaduna State Public Procurement Authority Launches Gender-Based Initiatives to Empower Women Economically

By; Ibrahim Aliyu,  Staff Reporter 

The Kaduna State Public Procurement Authority has launched a gender-responsive initiative aimed at empowering women economically, with a focus on enabling them to own and operate businesses, and access public procurement opportunities in the state. 

The Director General of the Kaduna State Public Procurement Authority, Engr. Sanusi Aminu Yero, made this announcement during a sensitization program held in Kaduna, themed "Women's Economic Empowerment through Affirmative Procurement Reforms in Kaduna State."

Engr. Yero highlighted that these new initiatives are part of a broader effort currently being implemented in various states across Nigeria, including Lagos State. The program, which is set to run for three years, is being carried out in collaboration with the United Nations (UN) Women’s Agency and other international support organizations. 

The aim is to bolster the economic standing of women by integrating them more effectively into the public procurement landscape.

“The initiative is not only about empowering women economically but also about building the capacity of public institutions to formulate and implement procurement policies that promote gender balance, transparency, and inclusivity,” said Engr. Yero. 

He emphasized that these efforts are part of a broader push to ensure that women in Kaduna State can access public procurement opportunities across various sectors, including Ministries, Departments, Agencies, and Local Government Areas.

A significant component of the initiative is the drafting of a gender-based responsive procurement document. Once approved, this document is expected to significantly enhance the economic opportunities available to women in Kaduna State, ensuring they can successfully engage in business activities and access public procurement opportunities.

Engr. Yero disclosed that the agency has already trained over 150 women entrepreneurs and business owners on procurement processes and guidelines.

However, he stressed the need for broader participation to fully implement the program and achieve its targeted goals. “More actions are required to ensure wider participation of women groups, which is crucial for the full and effective implementation of this program,” he stated.

He also called for effective collaboration with the media to promote the gender-responsive procurement policy and women's economic empowerment initiatives. Highlighting the importance of showcasing success stories, Engr. Yero noted that media support is crucial for the successful implementation of the program and for encouraging more women to participate.