NCCE Empowers Nabdam Women to Fight Corruption and Promote Rule of Law

The National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) in the Nabdam District has organised a civic engagement session to equip women’s groups with the knowledge and tools needed to combat corruption and strengthen the rule of law within their communities.

The programme brought together 60 women, including dressmakers, hairdressers, traders, and representatives from faith-based and community-based organisations, as well as young women in the informal sector.

The initiative forms part of the nationwide project “Civic Engagements on the Rule of Law and the Fight Against Corruption,” implemented by the NCCE with support from GIZ and co-funding from the European Union (EU).

Mr Joachim Elbazar, NCCE District Director for Nabdam, described women as essential pillars of local development. He noted that despite their critical roles as caregivers, entrepreneurs, and leaders, women often face systemic barriers such as limited access to education, economic inequality, and underrepresentation in governance, conditions that increase their vulnerability to corruption and abuse.

“Corruption, which is the abuse of trusted power for private gain, disproportionately affects women,” he said. “Market women may face extortion through illegal levies, young women may experience sexual harassment in exchange for services, and mothers may be forced to pay bribes to access healthcare and education.”

He added that strengthening women’s understanding of civic rights and available reporting mechanisms was crucial to building communities that resist corruption and promote justice.

Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Joseph Salifu, Nabdam District Police Commander, delivered presentations on “Rule of Law and Women’s Rights” and “Corruption and Women’s Vulnerability.” He emphasised that integrity and accountability were key to national development and urged participants to uphold transparency in all aspects of community life.

Madam Patricia A. Ayichuru, District Director of the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), highlighted the legal tools available to citizens, including the Whistleblower Act, the Right to Information Act, and the Office of the Special Prosecutor Act. She encouraged women to report corruption and rights violations without fear, assuring them of CHRAJ’s commitment to protecting whistleblowers.