Leadership is not only about managing resources or implementing policies, but also about driving change and inspiring others to join in creating a better future.
Rose Tchwenko has exemplified this ethos as the Country Director of CARE International in Ghana.
Over the past six years, she has transformed CARE International in Ghana into one of the nation’s most impactful development organisations, spearheading initiatives that tackle systemic inequalities, promote gender equity and foster economic empowerment across the country.
Rose’s leadership philosophy is one of empowerment and collaboration. Recognising the immense potential of women and girls as agents of change, she has championed gender equality initiatives that go beyond rhetoric to create tangible results.
Under her direction, CARE International in Ghana directly reached over 119,000 individuals in 2023, with a remarkable 69 percent being women and girls. This achievement underscores her belief that empowering women not only transforms their lives, but also uplifts entire communities.
A journey rooted in purpose
Rose’s career journey reflects her unwavering commitment to addressing social challenges and uplifting marginalised communities. With a professional background spanning over two decades in development work, her experience is as diverse as it is profound.
Before joining CARE International Ghana, Rose honed her expertise in leadership roles within CARE and across various organisations, where she demonstrated an ability to create sustainable solutions for communities in need.
Her arrival at CARE International in Ghana marked the beginning of a new era for the organisation. Her vision was clear: to strengthen CARE’s presence as a leader in tackling Ghana’s most pressing developmental challenges while ensuring that its interventions directly empowered those they served.
Championing gender equality
At the heart of CARE’s mission is a relentless focus on gender equality. Recognising the disproportionate challenges women and girls face, Rose has prioritised programmes that address barriers to education, economic participation and leadership opportunities.
Through initiatives such as the Village Savings and Loans Associations (VSLAs), CARE has enabled thousands of women to access financial resources, create additional livelihood, build businesses and support their families.
These programmes provide immediate relief and foster long-term resilience, equipping women with the tools to break the cycle of poverty.
Rose’s advocacy for gender equality extends beyond programme implementation. She has been a vocal advocate for policy changes that protect the rights of women and girls, working closely through CARE programmes with government agencies, NGOs and international partners to ensure that gender-sensitive policies are at the forefront of Ghana’s development agenda.
Driving innovation in development
One of Rose’s hallmarks as a leader is her ability to embrace innovation. In a rapidly changing world, traditional approaches to development often fall short of addressing emerging challenges. Rose has championed integrating technology into CARE’s programmes, leveraging digital tools to improve efficiency and broaden the reach of interventions.
For example, CARE International in Ghana’s digital platforms for education and agricultural support have revolutionised how communities access information. Farmers now receive real-time weather updates and market prices, while young learners in rural areas benefit from online educational resources.
The WeGrow project being implemented by CARE is a testament to how technology can be used to improve farming among even the least privileged people in rural Ghana. These technological advancements reflect Rose’s forward-thinking approach to development.
Building resilient communities
Another pillar of Rose’s leadership has been the emphasis on building resilient communities. Under her guidance, CARE International in Ghana has implemented initiatives aimed at mitigating the impacts of climate change, improving food security and enhancing healthcare access in vulnerable regions.
Projects like the PROSPER initiative have empowered cocoa-growing communities through community-led development approach, fostering improved livelihoods for farmers and their families. These initiatives have enhanced financial inclusion, expanded market access and cultivated strategic partnerships to drive sustainable growth and resilience.
A legacy of collaboration
Rose’s success as a leader is also rooted in her collaborative approach. She understands that addressing systemic challenges requires partnerships at all levels – from local community leaders, district partners, national government to international organisations.
Under her leadership, CARE has forged strategic alliances with stakeholders across sectors, creating synergies and strengthening government systems to bring CARE’s impact to scale.
These partnerships have not only enhanced programme delivery, but also ensured that CARE remains a trusted and respected voice in the development space in Ghana.
Recognitions and reflections
Rose’s work has not gone unnoticed. She has been recognised both locally and internationally for her contributions to development and her dedication to social justice. Yet, for Rose, the true measure of success lies not in accolades but in the lives transformed by CARE’s interventions.
Reflecting on her journey, Rose often emphasises the importance of humility and empathy in leadership. Her ability to connect with people, understand their needs and inspire her team to pursue excellence has been instrumental in her success.
Beyond her achievements, Rose serves as a role model for aspiring leaders in the development sector. Her story is a testament to the power of vision, determination and compassion.
By fostering an organisational culture that values innovation, inclusivity and impact, Rose has laid the groundwork for a brighter future not only for CARE International in Ghana, but most importantly for the communities it serves.
As Rose Tchwenko prepares to end her tenure at CARE International in Ghana, her work reminds us that true leadership is about creating opportunities, empowering others and leaving a legacy of hope and progress.
She has not just shaped CARE Ghana’s legacy – she has rewritten the narrative of leadership in development, proving that real change begins with bold, unwavering conviction.
