By Juliet Aguiar DUGBARTEY
Female Journalists for Women and Rural Development in Africa (FJ-WoRDA) has called on government to take urgent steps to fulfil its commitment to establish the Women’s Bank.
FJ-WoRD noted that access to financial resources remains a major challenge for many women, particularly those in rural areas.
“The establishment of this bank will provide economic empowerment, benefitting not just women but families and communities. Shirley Asiedu-Addo, Executive Director of FJ-WoRD made the call in a statement issued and signed by her on the International Women’s Day (IWD).
The statement also urged government to restructure the School Feeding Programme, ensuring that targeted underprivileged children, particularly in rural Ghana are able to access it. Again, the statement pointed out that a well-structured and efficiently managed feeding programme is crucial in ensuring that no child is deprive of education due to hunger, as nutrition plays a key role in learning and development.
Furthermore, the statement said: “We strongly advocate for the establishment of, at least, one survivor’s shelter in each region to provide safety, protection and rehabilitation for victims of domestic and gender-based violence. Many abused persons, especially women and children, lack access to safe spaces where they can seek refuge and support. It is time for concrete action to address this critical gap”.
The statement extended congratulations to Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang on her election to the high office of Vice President. Her achievement serves as an inspiration to women across the nation and beyond, reaffirming that women can attain the highest positions in every sphere of life.
This milestone, the statement said, is a victory for gender equality and a powerful message that with determination, competence and opportunity, women can lead at the highest levels.
“On this International Women’s Day, we renew our commitment to advocating for policies and initiatives that uplift women and rural communities. We call on all stakeholders, including government, civil society and the private sector to work together to create a more inclusive and equitable society for all,” the statement concluded.
