Women in Morobo Call for Protection and Empowerment

(MOROBO COUNTY) -Women leaders in Morobo County are urging local authorities to strengthen policies that protect women’s rights and expand empowerment opportunities at the grassroots level.

Elizabeth Dawa, Acting Chairlady of the Morobo Women Center, said many women in the county continue to face economic, political and social challenges. She noted that some men have abandoned family responsibilities, leaving women to shoulder domestic burdens alone and increasing cases of single motherhood.

“Men abandoning their responsibilities has made many women vulnerable,” Dawa said, calling on the government to ensure that the rights of women and girls are respected and protected across communities.

Another women’s leader Liberty Zainabu, highlighted persistent issues such as child neglect and early marriage, which she said continue to hinder girls’ education and long-term prospects. She recommended initiatives such as adult education and life-skills training to empower women and improve livelihoods.

County Executive Director Ezibon Gale encouraged women to form a unified association to better address challenges affecting women and girls at the local level.

Meanwhile, County Commissioner Joseph Mawa Okuba welcomed the concerns raised and pledged his administration’s commitment to working closely with women to find solutions. He emphasized that his priorities include maintaining peace and stability, protecting civilians and property, improving service delivery, and advancing development initiatives.

Okuba also warned against early child marriage, stressing the importance of promoting girls’ education. To support women economically, he announced plans to renovate the county’s demolished market center to create a more conducive business environment.

The leaders made these remarks during a consultative meeting held at the county headquarters on Wednesday.