"I joined The Hunger Project - Ghana when they had a program called Women Empowerment Program in 2010. As a woman, I have always considered myself to only be backstage and only respond to the directives of men. This was the situation with many women in this area, as we have always lacked the confidence and skills to undertake any initiatives. Growing up, men were always the leaders and decision-makers, providing for the needs of the home."
The WEP Workshop gave her a totally different orientation about the ideal relationship that should exist between women and men. She feels "empowered to run our own businesses, participate in decision-making at both the household and the community level and take part in leadership activities".
Rebecca also stated that participating in the programe enabled her to realise financial independence - and that she no longer had to rely on her husband to support her family and provide for her children's education.
Women play a critical role in creating healthier, resilient and sustainable communities. Their voices and actions are vital to realising the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.
To achieve gender equality, it is necessary to invest in women's engagement in corporate, civic and political life. Womens' involvement promotes inclusive development, gender equality and has an impact on diversity and inclusion policies.
The role of women in Ghana
National statistics in Ghana indicate that there is astill ahigh bar to entry for women into leadership positions, meaning that voices and experiences of women like Rebecca are sometimes not represented. WEP seeks to support women to reach their full potential in governance systems.
According to the UNDP (2022), out of Ghana's 275 members of parliament, only 40 are women. Out of the 86 ministerial positions, only 18 are women. Of the current 261 Metropolitan, Munincipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), only 38 are women. To reach gender equality by 2030, more women need to participate in governance systems at all levels and leadership roles both in the public and private sector.
