The 2026 International Women’s Day theme, ‘Give To Gain,’ is a powerful reminder that progress is accelerated through generosity, collaboration and shared support and when we give, we all gain. It focuses on the principle that meaningful progress on gender equality requires deliberate contribution from governments, organizations and institutions in the act to invest in women and expand more opportunities in our society.
In celebration of this, The Roses Ministry successfully conducted practical Skills Acquisition classes and Free Healthcare Program for vulnerable women on Thursday, 5th March 2026. The event was aimed at empowering women through vocational training while also providing essential free healthcare services. The program was well attended by women from various backgrounds, eager to gain new skills and access free medical services. Further down is detailed reports of the activities that took place during the event.

SESSION 1
1. FREE HEALTHCARE AND MEDICAL CHECKUPS

A major highlight of the event was the provision of free healthcare services, as The Ministry’s first quarterly Medical Outreach for the year 2026 with an attendance of over 370 vulnerable women especially widows. Medical professionals attended to the health needs of the women, with the following healthcare services:

• Blood Pressure & pulse checks: All women were screened.

• Blood Sugar Tests: Diabetic screenings were conducted to identify potential cases of diabetes, and beneficiaries were counseled and treated accordingly.

• General Medical Consultations: The women had the opportunity to discuss their health concerns with qualified medical personnel and receive recommendations for treatment.

• Prescription Filling: All hypertensives and diabetics were attended to and given the refill of their drugs for another three months with necessary pharmaceutical care; Basic medicines for other ailments: pain, malaria, etc. and supplements were provided to women based on medical assessments.

2. VOCATIONAL TRAINING

The skill acquisition segment of the event focused on equipping women with vocational skills to enhance their financial independence. The training covered a major practical skill.

• Zobo drink making: Women were taught how to produce a popular local hibiscus beverage that can serve as a source of livelihood. The training session aimed at empowering the widows with simple and practical business skills that can help them generate income.