First Lady H.E. Lordina Dramani Mahama has called on citizens to actively support efforts that promote gender equality and empower women and girls across the country, as Ghana joins the global community to mark International Women’s Day.
In her 2026 International Women’s Day message, Mrs. Mahama encouraged Ghanaians to reflect on the role each individual can play in advancing opportunities for women. She urged people to consider practical actions that can help close gender gaps in education, entrepreneurship, and leadership.
“As we observe International Women’s Day 2026, I encourage every Ghanaian to reflect on what you will Give to Gain gender equality.” - First Lady H.E. Lordina Dramani Mahama
She challenged families and communities to rethink how they support women, asking whether they would “mentor a young woman starting her own business” or “advocate for your daughter’s education as passionately as you do for your son’s.”
The First Lady emphasized that empowering women brings far-reaching benefits to society. According to her, when women are given the opportunity to thrive, entire communities benefit from the ripple effects of their success.
“Always remember that investing in women brings benefits. When women succeed, families flourish, communities thrive, and the nation advances.” - First Lady H.E. Lordina Dramani Mahama
Mrs. Mahama also drew inspiration from Ghanaian cultural wisdom, citing an Akan proverb to highlight the importance of correcting past inequalities. “Se wo were fi na wosan kofa a yenkyiri — when you forget something and go back for it, it is not forbidden,” she noted, urging the country to lift women and girls who may have been left behind.
She pointed to the economic and social gains that can come from supporting women across different sectors, from market traders in Makola to technology entrepreneurs in Accra and shea butter producers in northern Ghana.
While acknowledging progress in areas such as girls’ enrollment in STEM education and increased representation of women in leadership roles, Mrs. Mahama said significant challenges remain. She noted that many girls still drop out of school and that numerous women entrepreneurs continue to struggle to access financing.
She highlighted initiatives such as the Affirmative Action Bill and the proposed Women’s Development Bank as important steps toward expanding opportunities for female entrepreneurs.
Calling for renewed collective effort, the First Lady urged Ghanaians to draw inspiration from traditional community support systems such as “nnoboa” and “susu” in advancing gender equality, concluding her message with a rallying call: “Give to Gain.”
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