By Kwame Bediako
Ghana’s First Lady, Lordina Dramani Mahama, has called on Ghanaians to actively support the advancement of women and girls as the country joins the global community to mark International Women’s Day 2026.
In a message to commemorate the day, she encouraged citizens to reflect on the theme of “Give to Gain gender equality” by taking practical steps to uplift women in their families, workplaces and communities.
Mrs. Mahama urged individuals to consider actions such as mentoring young women starting businesses, advocating equally for the education of daughters, and supporting workplace policies that promote equal opportunities.
She stressed that investing in women yields widespread benefits, noting that when women succeed, families flourish, communities thrive and the nation as a whole advances.
The First Lady also drew inspiration from an Akan proverb which says, “Se wo were fi na wosan kofa a yenkyiri,” meaning it is not wrong to return for something forgotten.
According to her, the saying reflects the need for society to revisit its commitment to ensuring that no woman or girl is left behind.
She noted that providing opportunities for market women in Makola, mentoring young tech entrepreneurs in Accra and offering training for shea butter producers in northern Ghana all contribute to strengthening the country’s prosperity.
Mrs. Mahama highlighted what she described as encouraging progress in women’s empowerment across the country.
She pointed to increased interest and enrollment of girls in STEM education, stronger support systems for women farmers through cooperatives, and the growing presence of women in district assemblies, corporate leadership and boardrooms.
Despite these gains, the First Lady acknowledged that significant challenges remain. She noted that many talented girls still drop out of school, women entrepreneurs often struggle to access funding and women’s voices are still underrepresented in decision-making.
She said initiatives such as the Affirmative Action Bill and the proposed Women’s Development Bank under the administration of John Dramani Mahama are expected to create new opportunities for female entrepreneurs.
She further urged Ghanaians to embrace the traditional spirit of communal support reflected in practices like “nnoboa” and “susu” as the nation works toward achieving true gender equality.
