Rotary Clubs in Kaduna Rekindle Hope for Nine Widows Through Economic Empowerment … beneficiaries receive commercial grinding machines to boost livelihoods and promote self-reliance

Rotary Clubs in Kaduna Rekindle Hope for Nine Widows Through Economic

Empowerment

… beneficiaries receive commercial grinding machines to boost livelihoods and promote self-reliance

By Zainab Tanimu

Kaduna, Northwest Nigeria

Rotary Clubs in Kaduna have continued to demonstrate their commitment to community development and humanitarian service by empowering nine widows with commercial grinding machines to support their livelihoods and promote economic independence.

The initiative, jointly undertaken by Rotary Clubs across Kaduna, was designed to ease the economic challenges facing the beneficiaries and provide them with opportunities to generate income through small-scale businesses.

Speaking at the presentation, Assistant Zonal Coordinator, Zone 3, and Economic and Community Development Chair for 2026–2027, District 9127, Rotarian Aisha Ismail, said the intervention was part of the clubs’ efforts to put smiles on the faces of vulnerable members of society.

She explained that nine widows were selected for the empowerment after the organisers assessed their living conditions and identified those in need of economic support.

According to her, the beneficiaries were presented with commercial-grade, petrol-powered grinding machines capable of processing different food items, including grains, tomatoes and pepper.

Rotarian Aisha urged the beneficiaries to make proper use of the equipment, stressing that the machines were provided to help them establish their means of livelihood and should not be sold.

She further disclosed that the beneficiaries would be monitored to ensure that the intervention achieved its intended purpose.

“I will personally take it upon myself to visit their homes from time to time to ascertain how they are using the machines. We have their contact details, and we intend to follow up on their progress,” she said.

She noted that the decision to provide commercial-grade machines was deliberate, adding that the clubs wanted the beneficiaries to have equipment capable of supporting sustainable business activities.

Also speaking, Past Assistant Governor (PAG) and former Community Empowerment Chair, Rotarian Grace Sadiku, expressed delight at the growing impact of the clubs’ humanitarian interventions.

She observed that the number of beneficiaries had increased compared with the previous year, expressing hope that the initiative would expand further in subsequent years.

Sadiku encouraged the widows to take advantage of the opportunity by using the machines productively to improve their economic circumstances.

Another highlight of the occasion was the recognition of a dedicated Rotaractor by the Zonal Coordinator of Rotary International, District 9127, Nigeria, Kayode Michael Olonofemi, who singled her out for a special gift in appreciation of her commitment, dedication and consistent participation in Rotary activities.

The gesture was warmly received by Rotarians present, who described it as an encouraging innovation capable of motivating other young volunteers to remain committed to service.

Commending the Zonal Coordinator, Rotarian Aisha Ismail said the recognition was well deserved, noting that the Rotaractor had consistently demonstrated dedication and availability whenever called upon for club activities.

She urged others to emulate the young volunteer, observing that commitment and selfless service do not go unnoticed.

Overwhelmed by the unexpected recognition, the Rotaractor expressed gratitude to the Zonal Coordinator and Rotary leadership, describing the gesture as a great encouragement.

Some of the widow beneficiaries also expressed appreciation for the support, describing it as a timely intervention that would make a meaningful difference in their lives.

One of the beneficiaries, Mrs Tawah Ibrahim, thanked the Rotary Clubs for remembering them and providing the machines, praying for God’s blessings upon the organisation.

“I am really happy. I don’t know how to thank you people. God will bless Rotary Club,” she said.

The initiative once again underscores Rotary’s commitment to transforming lives through practical community interventions, while giving vulnerable women an opportunity to build sustainable livelihoods and contribute to their families’ well-being.