The Minister for Gender, Children, and Social Protection, Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, reiterated that leadership and peacebuilding are not exclusive to men, emphasizing that women possess equal capabilities as leaders and are vital contributors to national progress.
She pointed out that to attain a peaceful Ghana devoid of gun violence, it is essential for women to be actively involved, especially since they and children are the most vulnerable during times of insecurity.
Her remarks were made at the 2026 International Women’s Day for Peace and Disarmament Empowerment Seminar held in Accra, themed, “Women and Girls as Agents for Peace and Disarmament: From Awareness to Action for a Peaceful and Gun Violence-Free Ghana.”
The Minister urged for intentional policies and opportunities that facilitate women’s full participation in peace and security initiatives, while motivating them to acknowledge their potential to effect significant change in society.
In her address, the Acting Chief Director of the Ministry of the Interior, Mrs. Doreen Annan, advocated for the intentional empowerment of women and girls as key players in peacebuilding and the pursuit of a society free from gun violence.
She underscored that women and children disproportionately suffer from gun-related violence, making their involvement in prevention and response strategies crucial.
Mrs. Annan emphasized that women have consistently shown leadership in peacebuilding and should be empowered not merely as passive recipients but as active participants influencing security outcomes. She called for enhanced intelligence-led operations, better community-based security frameworks, and broader awareness campaigns that deliberately include women’s engagement.
The Chief Director stressed that peacebuilding should transcend mere rhetoric and evolve into structured, practical involvement, asserting that peace is not a project but an ongoing collective responsibility.
The Executive Secretary of the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons (NACSA), Dr. Adam Bonaa, emphasized that women serve as influential advocates for peace, fulfilling essential functions as mediators, community mobilizers, and advocates. He highlighted the necessity of inclusive participation and ongoing public education in tackling issues of insecurity.
