Executive Director of SWIDA, Hajia Alima Sagito
Participants at a post-election forum have renewed calls for sustained electoral and institutional reforms, with particular emphasis on gender inclusion and the active involvement of community influencers such as traditional and religious leaders.
Speaking at the forum organised by IDEG and NORSAAC with funding from the European Union, a women’s rights advocate and Executive Director of SWIDA, Hajia Alima Sagito, emphasised the importance of opportunity over prejudice in leadership spaces.
She challenged the persistent narrative that women lack the capacity to lead, asserting that given equal access to opportunities and resources, women can deliver results and will actively seek support to succeed.
“It is not about whether the woman has the quality. Give her the opportunity and the right support systems and she will deliver. Women will pull their weight if they are given the chance,” she stated.
According to Hajia Alima, the role of community leadership is crucial in advancing the implementation of the Affirmative Action (Gender Equality) Law 2024.
She noted that while traditional leaders have long been gatekeepers in local governance, religious leaders, particularly Imams and pastors, hold immense influence and must use their platforms to champion gender equity.
“Our traditional leaders are essential, but our religious leaders are revered. If they go to the mosque or church advocating for the Affirmative Action Law, it will greatly increase public awareness and acceptance,” she added.
The forum, held at UDS Tamale Campus, was part of post-2024 election reviews, bringing together civil society, traditional leaders, and development partners from Ghana’s five northern regions to assess progress and chart a forward path for inclusive governance.
The event concluded with a strong consensus on the need for broad-based advocacy, early reform implementation, and grassroots engagement to ensure that the gains made through legislation translate into real representation and impact.
BAI/MA
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