The Women, Peace and Security Network Africa (WIPSEN-Africa) would host an inter-generational dialogue to commemorate the 101th International Women’s Day. The conference aimed at bridging the gap between different generations of feminists and young girls from private and public schools would bring together women from different professional backgrounds including parliamentarians, women from law enforcement agencies, civil society organisations, government ministries and the media sector to share their great experiences of activism against gender based discrimination with young girls in Accra. The conference is on the theme ‘Taking a Step’.
This is because, although Ghana has made great strides in promoting the rights of women and girls, many young girls face many forms of discrimination that prevent them from realizing their full potential. Most young girls also lack self-confidence and the right connections to initiate and execute projects that bring social changes. This is further compounded by lack of opportunities to interact with female role models who have overcome these obstacles to attain leadership positions in different sectors of the economy.
To this end WIPSEN- Africa is providing a platform on which young girls would be inspired to assume leadership positions and take the steps necessary to initiate and implement activities that will not only improve their communities but also take them a step forward in becoming future women leaders in Africa.
The International Women’s Day (IWD) is a global celebration that brings into focus gender issues of today and sets a women’s agenda and momentum for the future. IWD from inception has provided a designated opportunity to lobby, raise awareness of the changes brought to women’s life, educate people on discrimination against women and celebrate women’s achievements. However, 100 years after the first celebration of IWD, discrimination against women persists, hence the need for continued action to curb the canker.
By: Sabina Adu-Wusu
