In Kwara State, Nigeria, two young women have taken the lead in the battle for resilient recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic and have mobilized youth to create greener, stronger, and healthier communities.
Baliqees and Salmah, both 23 years old, have been proactive in addressing the climate crisis and Gender-Based Violence in a time when vulnerable communities are struggling to bounce back from the pandemic's social, economic, and environmental impacts.
Baliqees, an environmental activist, initiated the "Pick That Trash" movement in Kwara State's capital, Ilorin, while Salmah, a development expert, hails from Kaiama in Kwara State. The pandemic hit hard, especially in rural areas where many relied on daily labor and informal work for sustenance. With the closure of schools and limited job opportunities, the situation became dire.
Recognizing the need to assist vulnerable communities, Baliqees and Salmah stepped in to provide information and resources. They used various platforms to share verified information about COVID-19, combat misinformation, and promote safety measures. They also distributed masks and sanitizers to those in need and empowered women within their communities.
Furthermore, as climate change impacts, such as flooding and drought, exacerbated the pandemic's effects, Baliqees and Salmah organized cleanups and repaired drainage systems to prevent flooding. They advocated for the removal of plastics from drainage systems and promoted eco-friendly practices.
These young women also addressed the shadow pandemic of domestic violence against women, advocating for the localization of the Violence against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Bill. They emphasized the importance of strengthening health facilities, improving sexual and reproductive healthcare services, and providing clean drinking water and hygiene materials.
Their recommendations for the way forward include strengthening health facilities, creating economic resilience, and building community-based organizations to support each other during crises. They stress the need for collaboration between government and youth-led organizations to generate sustainable livelihood options and ensure financial literacy.
Baliqees and Salmah exemplify the leadership of young people in addressing the pandemic and climate crisis. With support from various stakeholders, they aim to create greener, stronger, and more resilient communities that can tackle any crisis effectively.
About Baliqees and Salmah
Baliqees Salaudeen is a 23-year-old social and environmental activist. She works in the media and communications sector and also works with NGOs and non-profit organizations both local and national to help advance the SDGs.
Salmah Abdulrahman is a 23-year-old development expert and an advocate for good governance and women & youth participation in politics & governance. She currently sits on the board of trustees for Millennials Active Citizenship Advocacy Africa Network (MACAA); a youth-led civil society organization whose goal is to develop the next generation of citizens; to shape what it means to be an engaged and active citizen in the 21st century.
Also published: https://www.icccad.net/voices-from-the-frontline/young-women-leading-the-fight-for-greener-and-stronger-communities/
