Plan International Ghana and its partners held a closing ceremony to mark the end of a project focused on strengthening women’s rights organisations, preventing sexual and gender-based violence and supporting economic empowerment and leadership development.
Plan International Ghana and its partners held a closing ceremony to mark the end of the Women’s Voice and Leadership project (WVL).
The WVL has supported more than 102,000 women and girls with the aim of advancing human rights and gender equality.
The WVL Project, funded by Global Affairs Canada, worked with 81 women’s rights organisations. Through a variety of targeted activities, the project has addressed critical issues such as gender roles, prevention of sexual and gender-based violence, legal aid, female leadership, and economic empowerment.
Some highlights:
Strengthening women’s rights organisations
“We’ve trained 286 staff members from women’s rights organisations on various aspects of capacity building,” explains Mrs. Theodora Asare, Project Manager of the WVL Project. “One hundred percent of these organisations reported an increase in their ability to manage and engage in networks, alliances, platforms, and movements.”
Members of the women’s rights organisations, SWIDA, SONGTABA and COPIO who were part of the project shared:
‘While we acknowledge that changing gender norms is a gradual process, we’re proud of our progress in ensuring equal rights and involving women in decision-making. Moving forward, we’re committed to continued improvement in programming to reduce challenges to women’s rights. We’re advocating for the passage of the Affirmative Action Bill to increase women’s participation in high political positions. Over 60 WROs [women’s rights organisations] have engaged with the bill, contributing to its passage. Now, 21 WROs and 2 networks are better positioned to create lasting community impact. The time has come for all social groups to stand resolute in supporting women. Together, we can create a world where women’s rights are recognised and respected, ensuring safety and equality for all.’
Preventing Sexual and Gender-Based Violence
In 2022, Ghana ranked 108th out of 146 countries globally in the gender gap index, with 30 percent of women experiencing sexual violence at least once in their lifetime.
Through awareness campaigns and community engagement, the WVL Project has worked to change attitudes and behaviours.
Economic Empowerment and Leadership Development
Supporting to equip women with the skills and confidence to become economic actors and leaders in their communities.
“We’ve seen women start businesses, take on leadership roles, and become powerful advocates for change,” says Mr. Constant Tchona, Country Director of Plan International Ghana.
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