New helpline hands back control to women |08 September 2012

Vice-chairperson of the Liaison Unit of Non-Governmental Organisations in Seychelles (Lungos) Marie-Nella Azemia launched the Empower helpline in the presence of Iluta Lace, a trainer from the European Union and a member of FORMAPER Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Handicraft, chairperson of Women in Action Solidarity Organisation (Waso), trainer and private consultant Benjamin Vel, representatives from non-governmental organisations, community development, social services and religious institutions.

Ms Lace shared her experiences with violence against women in her native country, Latvia after which Mrs Azemia officially launched the helpline.

She described the workshop as “tied to a bigger projects, bringing a wider perspective to the issues of poverty alleviation and empowerment of women”, adding she would like to see more women becoming independent and standing up for their rights.

Chairperson of Waso Rosemary Elizabeth said the aim of the project is to “address issues regarding the ways in which we can empower women today”.

 She said she believes this is one of the elements keeping these women in poverty and that the helpline will help “strengthen an already existing line created by the Alliance of Solidarity For the Family (ASFF)”.

“This new line will be to coach and advise them on how to get out of this cycle and enter into entrepreneurship for example as a means of standing on their own two feet,” she said adding they will also receive advice on pensions scheme, tax and where to get general help for anything they may need.

“We want women to re-take control of their lives, especially those in violent relationships who think they need or deserve to remain in that situation,” she said.
 
Mrs Elizabeth said however that the empowerment helpline is yet to receive an actual number.

“We will let the public know as soon as the helpline is up and running”.

R. B.