The Widows and Orphans Movement (WOM), in partnership with Oxfam in Ghana, has unveiled a culturally-inclusive animated film aimed at raising awareness and challenging harmful widowhood rites practiced in parts of the Upper East Region of Ghana.
The initiative forms part of the Upholding the Rights of Widows (UP4WidOs) Project, and was launched as WOM joined global celebrations for International Widows Day, observed annually on June 23.
The animation, produced in Gurune—a language widely spoken in five districts of the region—captures the lived experiences of widows and their children, illustrating how entrenched cultural practices often isolate, dehumanize, and marginalize women during mourning periods. The premiere event, held at the GNAT Hall in Bolgatanga, attracted traditional leaders, policymakers, media practitioners, community members, widows, and orphans.
Speaking at the launch, Fati Abigail Abdulai, Executive Director of WOM, described the animation as both an educational resource and a call to action. She emphasized that the choice of language and format was strategic, aiming to break language barriers, promote inclusive engagement, and reach younger and male audiences who primarily access information through digital platforms and social media.
“The use of Gurune ensures that the message is accessible at the grassroots level. The animation format allows us to reach youth and men—audiences that are often overlooked in such campaigns. This isn’t just a film; it’s a tool for transformation,” Madam Abdulai said.
She further stressed that the campaign leverages storytelling as a medium for social change, blending powerful visuals, narration, and real-life experiences to provoke reflection, drive institutional accountability, and promote community-led reforms.
“To our traditional leaders, we hope this film encourages the review and reform of harmful widowhood rites. To institutions, we urge you to deepen your commitment to protecting widows and their children. To communities, let us create safe and dignified spaces for grieving women,” she appealed.
Abigail Abdulai also called on media houses to amplify the voices of widows and orphans whose struggles often remain unheard. She invited development partners to collaborate in scaling up the model across the Upper East Region and other parts of Ghana.
“We urge the media to share these stories widely. To our development partners, join us in scaling this advocacy model to inform and empower communities far and wide. This animation is not just for today—it’s a lasting resource and a catalyst for change,” she added.
According to her, the campaign affirms WOM’s broader mission to promote social justice by protecting the rights of widows and orphans in Ghana, using advocacy, education, and community engagement to challenge deeply rooted norms.
“At WOM, we believe in the power of storytelling. This animation will spark conversations, educate communities, and serve as a sustainable tool for advocacy,” she concluded.
“Let’s shine a light on the hidden struggles of widows and build an inclusive society where every woman is treated with dignity.”
Source: A1radioonline.com|101.1MHz|Gifty Eyram Kudiabor|Ghana
