The government is being urged to expedite the establishment of the promised Women’s Bank, a key commitment in the National Democratic Congress (NDC) manifesto. The call, made by the Female Journalists for Women and Rural Development in Africa (FJ-WoRDA), also emphasizes the need for other critical interventions to improve the welfare of women, particularly in rural areas.
FJ-WoRDA noted that access to financial resources remains a significant challenge for many women in Ghana, and the creation of a Women’s Bank would provide much-needed economic empowerment. By facilitating access to finance, the bank could uplift women, benefiting their families and communities.
In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Mrs. Shirley Asiedu-Addo, and issued to mark International Women’s Day on March 8, FJ-WoRDA stressed the importance of urgent action to ensure women can thrive economically. The statement emphasized that empowering women financially is crucial for improving their socio-economic standing, especially in underserved regions.
The group also called for the restructuring of the School Feeding Programme, aiming to ensure that underprivileged children, particularly in rural areas, can access adequate nutrition essential for learning and development. FJ-WoRDA highlighted that a well-managed feeding program plays a key role in preventing hunger from hindering education.
Additionally, FJ-WoRDA advocated for the establishment of at least one survivors’ shelter in each region to provide safety and rehabilitation for victims of domestic and gender-based violence. The group noted that many abused women and children lack access to safe spaces, stressing the need for immediate action to address this pressing issue.
As the 2025 Budget draws closer, there are indications that details regarding the form and funding of the proposed Women’s Bank could be revealed. The upcoming budget, set to be presented on Tuesday, is expected to provide a clearer roadmap for the government’s commitment to supporting women’s financial empowerment and addressing other key concerns.
FJ-WoRDA says it remains committed to advocating for policies that uplift women and rural communities, urging all stakeholders to work together to create a more inclusive and equitable society.
