Members of the Catholic Women and Men Auxiliary in the Upper East Region marked their 10th anniversary on Saturday with a health walk through the principal streets of Bolgatanga, promoting faith, healthy living, environmental stewardship, and women’s empowerment.
The colourful procession, accompanied by brass band music, drew participants from parishes and outreach centres across the Navrongo–Bolgatanga Diocese. The event, dubbed the “Health Walk,” was held under the theme “2026 Catholic Women: Signs of Hope and Life as Custodians of Mother Earth.”
Speaking at the event, the Directress of the Catholic Women Association, Rev. Sr. Ignatia Buaben, said the auxiliary was established to strengthen collaboration between men and women in the Church while addressing social challenges that hinder women’s development.
“Women are often the most vulnerable in society, and many are unable to reach their full potential due to abuse, discrimination and negative stereotypes,” Sr. Buaben said. “This association exists to bridge the gap between men and women in sharing the Word of God and to promote mutual respect and dignity.”
She also expressed concern over the growing incidence of drug abuse among young people and called on families, the Church and government to take urgent action. “If we fail to guide the youth today, we risk losing the future,” she warned.
The Assistant Treasurer of the association, Madam Kasise Bridget, highlighted the critical role women play in peacebuilding within families, churches and communities.
“Women are key actors in peacebuilding. They mediate conflicts, mobilise communities for peace initiatives, advocate for justice and human rights, and contribute to economic stability, which helps reduce poverty-related conflicts,” she said.
Diocesan President of the association, Madam Carolina Gornaah, underscored the importance of women’s financial empowerment, describing women as effective managers of household resources.
“Any financial support given to women multiplies to meet the essential needs of the family,” she said, adding that women’s participation in decision-making remains low due largely to limited financial independence. She noted that economic empowerment would strengthen women’s involvement in church leadership, politics, and governance.
Representing the Cathedral Administrator and Vice Chairman of the Parish Pastoral Council, Mr. Alex Nsoh Avoole thanked God for a decade of growth and service by the association.
“We are grateful to God for His abundant blessings over the past ten years. The parish will continue to support your missionary zeal, strengthen unity and inspire greater service within the Sacred Heart Cathedral Parish,” he said.
On behalf of the Catholic Bishop, Rev. Fr. Peter Ayamga commended the Catholic Women and Men Auxiliary for its contributions to evangelisation, unity and social development over the past decade.
The anniversary celebration ended with renewed commitments to youth mentorship, environmental protection, peacebuilding and stronger collaboration between men and women as the association looks toward another decade of service in the region.
Source: A1 Radio | 101.1 Mhz | Moses Anaba Azubire | Bolgatanga
