The Widows and Orphans Movement (WOM) has initiated a series of engagements with state institutions to ensure the effective implementation of the Marriage Act and the Intestate Succession Law in the Upper East region.
The engagement, titled “Learning and Sharing Forum on the Operationalization of the Marriage Act and the Intestate Succession Law by State Institutions,” aims to address gender-based discrimination and ensure equal access to inheritance and property rights.
Supported by ActionAid Ghana, the two-day forum brought together officials from the Social Welfare Department, the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), district and municipal assemblies, and the Ghana Police Service to discuss the implementation of these laws.
The discussions focused on addressing challenges faced by widows and orphans, including property grabbing, inheritance disputes, and gender-based violence.
Speaking to A1 News on behalf of Madam Fati Abigail, the Executive Director of the Widows and Orphans Movement, Nancy Amiziah stated that WOM’s efforts aim to promote gender equality, empower marginalized groups, and ensure that state institutions uphold the rights of widows and orphans.
“Widows and orphans, in collaboration with ActionAid Ghana, have been working for years to promote women’s rights. As part of our activities on women’s rights, we have noted issues related to marriage and inheritance, particularly concerning lands and properties of widows. This activity brought together duty bearers from government institutions that deal directly with women on these issues to discuss and share insights.”
The initiative is expected to bring about positive change in the lives of vulnerable populations in the Upper East region, promoting social justice and human rights. Lawyer Abdulai Jalaldeen, the Upper East Regional Director of CHRAJ, emphasized the importance of the engagement. He noted that many people lack knowledge about these laws, and the program will empower stakeholders to help the vulnerable in their communities better utilize these laws.
Some participants who spoke to A1 News expressed their satisfaction with being part of the program. They believe it has provided them with a comprehensive understanding of these laws, which they can use to assist others.
Source: A1Radioonline.Com | 101.1 MHz | David Azure | Bolgatanga
