The contribution of women to societal development must not be underestimated. However, women can only make meaningful contributions if social constructs and cultural norms that exclude them from decision-making processes are addressed.
“Women are capable. Their voices need to be heard, even amidst men. We do not live in societies that consist solely of males. Regardless of the situation, we must ensure that both male and female voices are equally represented,” said Dr. Sabina Appiah Boateng, a research fellow at the Department of Peace Studies (School for Development Studies) at the University for Cape Coast (UCC). She made these comments while speaking to the media on the sidelines of a two-day capacity-building workshop on human rights violations, stereotypes, and negative gender norms in Zebilla, the capital of the Bawku West District.
Dr. Boateng explained that while the issue of denying women their rightful place in decision-making is widespread, the engagement with participants in Bawku West has highlighted the need for increased women’s participation.
“I am pleased that community leaders have taken on the role of educating and raising awareness among community members about the importance of gender equality. We should not limit women based on cultural norms or misconceptions about their capabilities. Women need to break barriers, and we must support them in doing so,” she stated.
The Upper East Regional Peace Council organized the two-day capacity-building workshop on human rights violations, stereotypes, and negative gender norms for chiefs, assembly and unit committee members, leaders of the Fulbe community, and staff of the Bawku West District in Zebilla. Participants were drawn from three communities: Kopella, Widnaba, and Sapelliga.
David Angaamba, Principal Programme Manager of the Upper East Regional Peace Council, highlighted that the workshop aimed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills to counter negative gender norms, promote positive and inclusive narratives, and bridge gaps in understanding human rights violations. The workshop also sought to enable participants to foster systematic change, promote social justice, and create a more equitable and inclusive society. A total of 50 participants attended the workshop.
The event was funded by the United Nations (UN) Peace Building Fund through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).
Naba Abodbundi Emmanuel Ayagiba III, Divisional Chief of the Sapelliga community, praised the quality of knowledge shared at the workshop. He noted, “Most people, especially girls and members of the Fulbe communities, do not know their rights. This information will greatly help us.”
He also called for assistance in disseminating this information to community members.
Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1MHz|Mark Kwasi Ahumah Smith|Ghana
