Alhaji Awal Ahmed Kariama, the Executive Director of the Rural Initiatives for Self-Empowerment (RISE)-Ghana, has emphasized the need for greater representation of women and persons with disabilities (PWDs) in leadership roles.
He identified a lack of awareness about the necessary procedures and processes as one of the key barriers preventing these groups from pursuing positions of influence.
“First of all, I think it’s an issue of awareness of the procedures and the processes. You have to be aware and ready,” he stated.
Speaking on A1 Radio, he highlighted that while women and PWDs possess significant potential, many lack the confidence and understanding required to stand for office. He noted that cultural norms have contributed to the marginalization of these underrepresented groups, particularly women and PWDs, who are often relegated to the background.
“A lot of people with disabilities and a lot of women have potential, but they do not have the confidence or awareness to say they want to stand for a particular office,” he remarked.
“We have constructed a negative cultural system where we undermine underrepresented groups like persons with disabilities and women,” he added.
Mr. Kariama called for a shift in societal mindset to ensure equal opportunities for all, regardless of gender or disability.
Looking ahead, RISE-Ghana’s two-year program aims to challenge these negative cultural norms and increase the participation and representation of women, PWDs, and youth in governance. He stated that the organization is committed to creating an environment where these groups feel empowered and confident enough to contest leadership positions.
“We are running the program for two years. Our expectation is that we will be able to challenge the negative norms surrounding the participation and representation of underrepresented groups—women, persons with disabilities, and youth,” he explained.
He further expressed his belief that the changes brought about by the initiative would not only elevate the social standing of marginalized groups but also contribute to the overall development of local governance for the benefit of all.
Source: A1Radioonline.com | 101.1MHz | Gifty Eyram Kudiabor | Bolgatanga
