A Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), Gender Awareness Trust (GAT) has commended women across Katsina communities for their contributions towards promoting peace and security.

The GAT’s State Coordinator, Muhammad Maifada, made the commendation on Friday during a sensitisation exercise at the palace of the District Head of Shinkafi, Abdurashid Abubakar.

The exercise was organised in collaboration with UK International Development, SPRING, and Tetra Tech International Development.

Mr Maifada said that the sensitisation programme, which featured participation of about 13 community leaders, was part of activities to commemorate the 2026 International Women’s Day.

He noted that studies have shown the significant contributions women make in enhancing security within communities, particularly through the provision of vital information to security agencies and other relevant stakeholders.

Mr Maifada stressed that parents and religious leaders also have a vital role to play, noting that they were close to the people and serve as permanent community leaders.

According to him, they are in a strategic position to help promote peace, guide the public on security measures, and inform citizens on appropriate channels for reporting issues to protect their communities.

He, therefore, called on members of the public to understand that everyone had a role to play in ensuring security and peace, stressing that each individual could contribute in different ways toward safeguarding their communities.

According to Mr Maifada, GAT supported women peace and security implementation committee members to carry out community sensitisation to inclusive peace-building.

Mr Maifada added that GAT also operates in Kaduna, while in Katsina State its activities cover Batagarawa, Kaita, and Katsina Local Government Areas.

“Among the key activities of the organisation is raising community awareness on the importance of women’s participation, particularly in matters relating to security and peace-building.

“The organisation is also advocating against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), a menace that affects women and children in the state,” the coordinator said.

In his remarks, the District Head, who is also the Turaren Katsina, expressed gratitude to God for the choice of his district to host the celebration marking the International Women’s Day.

He also acknowledged the positive impact of the organisation’s activities within the community and pledged continued support and cooperation to ensure sustained peace and security across Katsina State. 

(NAN)