Committees should work to boost women’s political participation: Minister Shareef

Local Government and Public Works Minister Adam Shareef has said the role of women’s development committees in promoting women’s political participation is crucial.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the "Anhenveringe Sallaa" workshop, organized by the Ministry of Local Government, the Minister highlighted the need for increased awareness initiatives, particularly in islands where political engagement remains low.

He said that the success of community based programs heavily depends on the active involvement of women's development committees and urged them to take greater responsibility in empowering women.

“These committees must champion political engagement by instilling a national mindset and encouraging participation not based solely on party affiliation, but driven by the importance of civic responsibility,” Minister Shareef said.

He also called on the committees to conduct targeted awareness programs to address health concerns affecting women and children in local communities.

The workshop marks the first such initiative by the Ministry for women's development committees and was officially inaugurated by First Lady Sajidha Mohamed.

The session is being attended by 59 representatives from Women’s Development Committees of Male', Haa Alifu, Haa Dhaalu, Shaviyani, Alifu Dhaalu, Lhaviyani, Meemu, and Male' atolls.