Accra: Madam Fatimatu Abubakar, the former Minister of Information, along with other accomplished Zongo women, have established a not-for-profit NGO aimed at enhancing the capabilities of young Zongo women to expand their businesses. She highlighted that approximately 70 percent of small and medium-sized enterprises in Ghana are owned by women. Enhancing their entrepreneurial and leadership skills, especially those from the five northern regions, could significantly boost their economic potential.
According to Ghana News Agency, Madam Abubakar, a founding member of the NGO, announced the launch of the Growlead Foundation in Accra. This not-for-profit organization is dedicated to empowering women, girls, and marginalized communities, particularly within the Upper East, Upper West, Savannah, North East, and Northern regions, Zongo neighborhoods, and settler communities throughout the country. The NGO aims to provide women and girls with capacity-building programs and financial support, enabling them to have a meaningful influence in societal decisions.
The Growlead Foundation intends to enhance the leadership capacities of women and girls, equipping them to drive positive change within their communities. The initiative is designed to ensure that women, girls, and marginalized groups are fully aware of their social and political rights and are empowered to actively participate in civic activities. Madam Abubakar pointed out that United Nations statistics suggest enhancing the potential of young women globally could increase their economic potential by four trillion dollars by 2030.
Dr. Fatimatu N-Eyare Sulemana, a keynote speaker at the event and a lecturer at the University of Ghana’s Department for the Study of Religions and Islamic Studies, emphasized the importance of resourcing and strengthening the leadership capacity of girls and women in Ghana. She asserted that empowering women is a strategic move to build a movement of current and future leaders.
Mr. Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the Minority Leader in Parliament and NPP Member of Parliament for Effutu, urged young women and girls to stay determined in life and not to overlook humble beginnings. He shared his personal experiences of growing up in Winneba and the challenges he faced in paying his school fees. The legislator committed to providing financial support and other material resources to help the NGO achieve its vision.
The inauguration of the NGO was attended by high-profile personalities, including National Chief Imam Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, traditional leaders, former ministers of state, and members of Parliament.