A delegation of Catholic women has pledged its support for the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection’s efforts to promote gender equality and combat gender-based violence. This commitment was made during a courtesy call on Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, the Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection. The meeting focused on strengthening collaboration to protect women, children, and vulnerable persons across Ghana.
The Catholic women briefed Dr. Lartey on their preparations for the 2026 World Union of Catholic Women's Organisations (WUCWO) Day Celebration. They also detailed plans to launch the Coalition of Religious and Traditional Women Against Violence and Discrimination Against Women and Girls. This new coalition will mobilize faith-based and traditional women leaders to champion the rights, safety, and well-being of women and girls. The initiative specifically targets communities where religious and traditional institutions hold significant influence.
This collaboration aligns with broader national efforts to address gender inequality and violence, which remain persistent challenges in Ghana. The government has consistently sought partnerships with civil society and religious bodies to extend its reach into communities. Such partnerships are vital for implementing policies effectively and fostering societal change. Previous reports indicate that gender-based violence continues to affect a significant portion of the female population, underscoring the urgent need for concerted action.
Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey welcomed the initiative, reaffirming the Ministry’s commitment to working with faith-based organizations. She highlighted the importance of such collaborations in advancing gender equality and strengthening efforts to prevent gender-based violence. Dr. Lartey emphasized that partnerships with religious and traditional institutions are crucial for protecting women and girls, strengthening families, and promoting safer, more supportive communities.
The launch of the Coalition of Religious and Traditional Women Against Violence and Discrimination Against Women and Girls is a significant development. It signals a renewed focus on leveraging the moral authority and community networks of religious groups. This approach could lead to more effective prevention strategies and increased support for victims of violence. Decision-makers and advocacy groups will closely watch the coalition's impact on reducing gender-based violence statistics in the coming years. The success of this initiative could also inspire similar collaborations in other sectors.
The involvement of churches as platforms for promoting peaceful coexistence and protecting vulnerable persons was also highlighted. Many individuals turn to faith-based institutions for guidance and support during difficult periods. This makes churches crucial partners in addressing social issues like gender-based violence. The 2026 WUCWO Day Celebration will likely serve as a major platform to further publicize these efforts and galvanize broader community support. This collaborative model aims to create a more robust support system for women and girls nationwide.