Section of gathering at 2nd Annual General Body Meeting of Secheku Women Block Level Federation at Pholami Village.
Phek, May 25 (MExN): The Secheku Women Block Level Federation (SWBLF) organized its 2nd Annual General Body Meeting on May 23 at Pholami Village in Phek district. The programme was attended by around 350 SHG members, village leaders, and elders from across the linguistically diverse Secheku area.
Vechulou Kanuo, Former Executive Director of Chakhesang Women Welfare Society (CWWS), graced the occasion as the guest speaker and commended the Department for its continuous efforts in uplifting rural women.
She highlighted visible improvements in cleanliness, leadership, economic activities, and cultural participation among women since the establishment of SHGs in the region. Mrs. Kanuo applauded the Block for forming inclusive SHGs and emphasized the federation’s motto, “Empowering Economies, Enriching Lives.” She stressed that true empowerment goes beyond income, encompassing education, health, lifestyle, confidence, and respect—benefits that not only uplift women but also strengthen families and inspire children to dream big.
Recalling the history of SHGs in the region, Kanuo noted that CWWS began 25 SHGs in 2002, providing literacy programs, small savings schemes, and technical support through organizations such as NABARD and Neida. Today, 586 SHGs under CWWS have been adopted by the Nagaland State Rural Livelihoods Mission (NSRLM). She encouraged women to continue their efforts, emphasizing that even small contributions can have a significant impact. She also advised maintaining unity, avoiding gossip, balancing SHG activities with family responsibilities, and ensuring financial transparency. “Empowered hands create empowered families,” she said, urging the federation to become a model of empowerment and unity for the entire Chakhesang community.
The program began with an invocation led by Cuvelu Nakro of Pholami Baptist Church, followed by a special song from Gidera VLO, Gidemi. Hovicieli Tahe conducted the first session, while SWBLF President, Wedele Tsuhah, welcomed the dignitaries, thanked the guest speaker for taking time despite her busy schedule, and appreciated the unity and cooperation among federation members.
Kulaveyi Sakhamo, Head GB Pholami Village, praised the residents of the Secheku area for their harmony, noting that programs are conducted smoothly across multiple languages.
The meeting featured success stories from Lila Lea of Chobama Village and Welhizou Wetsah of Chizami Village. Lea shared how joining an NSRLM SHG eight years ago transformed her life. With access to training and affordable loans, she established a vegetable supply business, transporting fresh produce from Dimapur to her village and local produce to larger markets in Pfütsero and Dimapur. She also introduced a digital banking machine in her village, bringing essential banking services closer to residents. Today, she is financially independent, supports her parents, and has earned respect in her community.
Similarly, Welhizou Wetsah recounted how NSRLM support enabled her to start piggery and poultry businesses. With financial literacy training and a Community Investment Fund (CIF) loan, she now manages household expenses, pays her children’s school fees, and has gained confidence, literacy, and leadership skills. Both women expressed deep gratitude to NSRLM for their guidance.
Neikurayi Curhah, Block Programme Manager (BPM), BMMU Chizami Block, highlighted key achievements and the mission’s focus on empowering rural livelihoods. Awards were presented to outstanding members: Dzuthonolu Nakro (Best Master Book Keeper), Menyieteu Venuh (Best Village Facilitator), Koneilou Tsuzuh (Best Community Service Provider), and Veravolu Lohe (Best Community Resource Person – Enterprise Promotion). Kechunu SHG of Chizami Village and Vitao VLO of Zhavame Village were recognized as the Best SHG and VLO, respectively. Zhonolu Lohe conveyed words of gratitude.
The second session focused on deliberations and the adoption of new agendas for the federation. Khrowateu Akami, Manager SWBLF led the session where Zhonolü Lohe was elected as Secretary of SWBLF till 2028. The program concluded with the benediction by Cütolü Vadeo, Treasurer SWBLF.
The 2nd Annual General Body Meeting reinforced SWBLF’s commitment to women’s empowerment, financial literacy, leadership, and community cohesion. With inspiring success stories, recognition of outstanding members, and guidance from the guest speaker, the meeting set a strong foundation for continued growth and collective progress in the years to come.
