By The Female Journalists for Women and Rural Development in Africa (FJ-WoRDA) has urged the government to take immediate action. They want the government to fulfil its commitment to establishing the long-promised Women’s Bank.
According to the organisation, women, especially those in rural communities, continue to face significant barriers in accessing financial resources. This makes it difficult for them to expand businesses, support their families, and contribute meaningfully to economic growth.
The group released a statement on International Women’s Day. It was signed by Shirley Asiedu-Addo, Executive Director of FJ-WoRDA. They stressed the urgent need for the government to accelerate efforts. These efforts are to make the Women’s Bank a reality.
“Access to financial resources remains one of the biggest challenges for women, particularly those in rural areas. The establishment of this bank will provide a dedicated financial institution. It will support women’s economic empowerment and ultimately benefit families and communities,” the group stated.
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Beyond financial inclusion, the organisation also highlighted concerns about the country’s School Feeding Programme. It called for immediate reforms to ensure that children from underprivileged backgrounds receive regular and nutritious meals. This is especially important in rural areas.
The group emphasised the role of proper nutrition in academic success. They urged the government to strengthen the programme’s management and implementation.
“A well-structured and efficiently managed feeding programme is crucial. It ensures that no child is deprived of education due to hunger. Many children in underserved areas struggle with learning because they do not get enough to eat. If the School Feeding Programme is properly implemented, it will help bridge the gap. It will provide children with the nourishment they need to focus on their studies,” the statement noted.
FJ-WoRDA also stressed the need for more support systems for victims of domestic and gender-based violence. The organisation pointed out that survivors of abuse often lack safe spaces where they can seek shelter, protection, and rehabilitation.
The group called on the government to establish at least one survivor’s shelter in every region. This would ensure that victims of abuse receive the care and support they deserve.
“Too many women and children continue to suffer in silence. They have nowhere to turn when they experience domestic and gender-based violence. The government must prioritise establishing shelters across the country. This ensures victims can find safety, receive counselling, and rebuild their lives in a secure environment,” FJ-WoRDA stated.
The organisation advocated for these critical interventions. It also used the occasion to acknowledge the historic achievement of Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang. She was recently elected as Vice President.
The group described her victory as a major milestone for women in leadership. It proves women are more than capable. They can occupy the highest offices in the country.
“Her election to this high office is a powerful statement that women can lead at the highest levels of governance. It inspires young girls and women across the nation. It reaffirms that with determination, competence, and opportunity, they too can rise to positions of influence,” the statement read.
FJ-WoRDA reaffirmed its commitment to pushing for policies and initiatives that uplift women and rural communities.
The organisation called on all stakeholders. These stakeholders include the government, civil society organisations, and the private sector. They need to collaborate in building a more inclusive society. In this society, women and children are given the support they need to thrive.
“As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we remind all stakeholders that real progress requires deliberate action. We urge the government and all relevant bodies to work together. They should ensure a more equitable and inclusive society. In this society, women’s contributions are valued and their rights protected,” the group concluded.
