By Bilkisu Ado Zango
Today marks the global celebration of International Women’s Day (IWD) 2026, a moment dedicated to recognizing the achievements of women and accelerating action toward gender equality across the world.
The theme for this year, “Give to Gain – Empowering Women for a Better World,” highlights the power of collective support in advancing opportunities for women and girls. The message behind Give to Gain is simple yet powerful: when individuals, organizations, and communities invest their time, resources, and commitment in empowering women, the entire society benefits.
Giving support to women is not a loss—it is an intentional investment that multiplies opportunities, strengthens families, and builds more resilient communities.
International Women’s Day also serves as a platform to increase momentum in addressing the systemic barriers and social biases that women continue to face in both personal and professional spheres. Women play a central role in shaping communities, economies, and development outcomes.
Within this broader movement for equality, women with disabilities must not be left behind. They bring lived experiences, knowledge, and leadership that are vital for building inclusive societies. Despite facing additional social and structural challenges, women with disabilities continue to challenge stereotypes, advocate for their rights, and lead positive change in their communities.
One initiative working to support this vision is the Faith and Cultural Champions (FCC) for Healthy Women and Girls Project, implemented by the Centre for Communication and Social Impact (CCSI) under the guidance of the Advisory Faith and Cultural Champions (AFCCs).
The project focuses on improving the health and well-being of Adolescent Girls and Young Women (AGYW), including those living with disabilities, in Kano and Kaduna states.
Through the engagement of Individual Faith and Cultural Champions (IFCCs), the initiative works closely with respected religious and cultural leaders in communities to promote positive social norms and behaviors that support the health and well-being of young women.
The project encourages awareness and positive health practices related to:
Antenatal Care (ANC)
Delivery in healthcare facilities
Childbirth spacing (CS)
These efforts benefit not only adolescent girls and young women but also families and community members more broadly.
Across six Local Government Areas in Kano State—Kano Municipal, Bunkure, Makoda, Dawakin Tofa, Takai, and Madobi—the project actively mobilizes and sensitizes Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) to serve as champions within their communities.
A key priority of the FCC initiative is promoting disability inclusion by removing barriers, combating stigma, and ensuring equal opportunities for meaningful participation in community development and health decision-making.
For many individuals living with disabilities, International Women’s Day represents an important opportunity to amplify their voices and strengthen the call for equality.
Women with disabilities remain an essential part of society. Their resilience, experience, and leadership contribute significantly to building stronger and more inclusive communities.
Inclusive communities understand that women experience barriers differently based on disability, culture, age, and background. Through its work in Kano and Kaduna states, the FCC Project continues to address these challenges and promote positive change for women with disabilities.
Call to Action
On this International Women’s Day 2026, communities, leaders, and stakeholders are encouraged to:
Promote inclusive policies and programs
Strengthen community support systems for women and girls
Challenge stigma and harmful stereotypes
Ensure that no woman or girl is left behind
Inclusion is not charity or a favor—it is a fundamental principle of equality and justice.
Empowering women with disabilities means recognizing their rights, amplifying their voices, and creating opportunities for them to thrive.
Together, we can give our support today to gain a more inclusive and equitable future for women and girls with disabilities.
Bilkisu Ado Zango
Individual Faith and Cultural Champion (IFCC), Kano State
Northwest Zonal Coordinator,
National Association of Persons with Physical Disabilities (NAPPWD)
Northwest Zonal Coordinator,
Association of Women with Disabilities Initiative (AWWDI)
