By Kehinde Ibrahim, Lagos
LAFARGE Africa Plc has restated its commitment to gender equality and women empowerment as the Company graduated 40 women from its Female Tilers and Block Making Training Program.
The Female Tilers and Block Making Training Program is part of Lafarge Africa’s broader corporate social responsibility efforts aimed at equipping women from underserved communities with the necessary skills to thrive in the construction industry.
Over the course of four weeks, participants received hands-on training in tiling and block making, using Lafarge Africa’s flagship products, Supafix and Supaset. The program’s objective was to break down gender barriers in an industry that has traditionally been dominated by men.
Speaking at the ceremony in Lagos, CEO of Lafarge Africa, Lolu Alade-Akinyemi highlighted the program’s role in breaking barriers and fostering gender inclusivity in the construction industry.
He noted, “your expertise and mentorship have shaped the remarkable transformation we see in these women today.”
He encouraged graduates to harness their newfound skills to inspire others, affirming that “Lafarge Africa stands behind you as you embark on your journey toward success.”
Reflecting on the program’s broader impact, director, Communications, Public Affairs and Sustainable Development, Lafarge Africa, Viola Graham-Douglas, inspired the graduates, stating, “you have the power to make a difference. Your hard work and dedication serve as an inspiration, not just to me, but to many others.”
She emphasised the significance of empowering women for community development, saying, “by equipping these women with valuable skills, we are contributing to the growth of not only their careers but also their communities. They are pioneers, and their success will inspire others to follow in their footsteps.”
Executive secretary of the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF), Feyishayo Alayande said, “this graduation embodies the spirit of ‘Breaking Barriers,’ showing that women can thrive in traditionally male-dominated fields.”
She added that “we commend Lafarge for its commitment to empowering women with the skills needed for success, which aligns with our mission to foster workforce inclusion and create meaningful employment opportunities.”
Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende commended Lafarge’s commitment to empowering young women, stating, “we are eager to work with Lafarge to reach more young women.”
He also announced recent approvals for renovation projects, noting, “this will give our graduates the practical experience needed to make a meaningful impact.”
Commissioner for Basic Education, Lagos State, Jamiu Alli Balogun encouraged the graduates, stating, “the skills you have gained will empower not only yourselves but also your communities.”