First Lady Calls for Collective Action to Advance Gender Equality

As Ghana joined the global community to commemorate International Women’s Day 2026, First Lady Lordina Mahama called on citizens to actively support efforts aimed at achieving gender equality.

Under the theme of “Give to Gain,” the First Lady emphasized that investing in women is not just a moral imperative but a catalyst for national prosperity. “When women succeed, families flourish, communities thrive and the nation advances,” she stated.

She emphasized that the advancement of women should go beyond public declarations and translate into practical actions that create opportunities for girls and women across the country. Among the measures she highlighted were mentorship for young women entering business, equal commitment to educating both daughters and sons and stronger support for policies that guarantee equal opportunities in workplaces and communities.

Mrs. Mahama acknowledged the progress Ghana has made in recent years, particularly the increasing number of women enrolling in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) programmes as well as their growing presence in district assemblies and corporate leadership positions. Despite these achievements, she pointed out that many challenges remain.

She observed that numerous talented girls continue to drop out of school due to financial and social barriers, while many capable women still struggle to access funding and resources needed to expand their businesses and pursue leadership roles.

To address these gaps, the First Lady highlighted the potential impact of the Affirmative Action Bill and the proposed Women’s Development Bank, an initiative under the Mahama administration intended to provide financial support to female entrepreneurs across the country.

Drawing inspiration from Ghanaian cultural values, Mrs. Mahama referenced the spirit of Sankofa, urging the nation to reflect on its past and ensure that women and girls who have been left behind are supported. She also encouraged communities to adapt traditional systems of cooperation, such as nnoboa and susu, to modern efforts aimed at empowering women.

Mrs. Mahama called for unity and commitment in the pursuit of gender equality, stressing that Ghana’s progress is closely tied to the advancement of its women and girls. “When women rise,” she said, “the nation rises with them.”