Female assembly members in the Upper East Region have marked International Women’s Day, celebrating their contributions to local governance, gender equality, and community development.
The event, held on March 19, 2026, at the Bolgatanga Municipal Assembly conference hall, brought together women in local governance under the theme “Give to Gain.”
The celebration provided a platform to recognize the role of women in leadership while promoting mentorship, collaboration, and leadership development among female assembly members.
Awards were presented to outstanding individuals during the event. Queen mother and assembly member Deborah Alabilla Ndebugre was honored for her long service in local governance.
Ndebugre, who is currently serving her fourth term as an assembly member in the Garu-Tempane Municipality and also serves as a queen mother, shared her experiences during an engagement session. She recounted her journey in leadership and community development, encouraging other women to remain committed despite challenges in politics and governance.
Participants reflected on barriers facing women in leadership but emphasized the need for persistence and collective support. They described this year’s theme, “Give to Gain,” as a call to invest in women through mentorship, resources, and opportunities.
“When we give generously—whether through resources, visibility, or mentorship—opportunities for women increase, and when women thrive, the entire nation benefits,” participants noted.
Upper East Regional Girl-Child Education Officer Rita Abarmah said the theme resonates strongly within the Ghanaian context, highlighting the critical role women play in national development.
“From resilient traders in our marketplaces to professionals in technology, law, and governance, the contribution of women is the thread that holds our democracy together,” she said.
Participants called for stronger institutional support to advance gender equality, including the full implementation of the Affirmative Action Act through the passage of its Legislative Instrument.
They also urged policymakers to recognize unpaid care work within national frameworks and called on law enforcement and the judiciary to strengthen protections for survivors of domestic and gender-based violence through improved systems and training.
The event concluded with a renewed call for action, emphasizing that while progress has been made, sustained efforts are needed to ensure women’s full participation and leadership in governance and national development.
A1 Radio | 101.1 Mhz | Moses Anaba Azubire | Bolgatanga
