FJ-WoRDA urges government to prioritise Women’s Bank, School Feeding Programme, and survivor shelters

The Female Journalists for Women and Rural Development in Africa (FJ-WoRDA) has urged the government to take immediate action to fulfil its commitment to establishing the long-promised Women’s Bank.

According to the organisation, women, especially those in rural communities, continue to face significant barriers in accessing financial resources, making it difficult for them to expand businesses, support their families, and contribute meaningfully to economic growth.

In a statement released on International Women’s Day and signed by Shirley Asiedu-Addo, Executive Director of FJ-WoRDA, the group stressed the urgent need for the government to accelerate efforts to make the Women’s Bank a reality.

“Access to financial resources remains one of the biggest challenges for women, particularly those in rural areas. The establishment of this bank will provide a dedicated financial institution to support women’s economic empowerment, ultimately benefiting families and communities,” the group stated.

Beyond financial inclusion, the organisation also highlighted concerns about the country’s School Feeding Programme, calling for immediate reforms to ensure that children from underprivileged backgrounds, particularly in rural areas, receive regular and nutritious meals.

The group emphasised the role of proper nutrition in academic success and urged the government to strengthen the programme’s management and implementation.

“A well-structured and efficiently managed feeding programme is crucial in ensuring that no child is deprived of education due to hunger. Many children in underserved areas struggle with learning because they do not get enough to eat. If the School Feeding Programme is properly implemented, it will help bridge the gap and provide children with the nourishment they need to focus on their studies,” the statement noted.

FJ-WoRDA also stressed the need for more support systems for victims of domestic and gender-based violence.

The organisation pointed out that survivors of abuse often lack safe spaces where they can seek shelter, protection, and rehabilitation.

The group, therefore, called on the government to establish at least one survivor’s shelter in every region to ensure that victims of abuse receive the care and support they deserve.

“Too many women and children continue to suffer in silence because they have nowhere to turn when they experience domestic and gender-based violence. It is imperative for the government to prioritise the establishment of shelters across the country so that victims can find safety, receive counselling, and rebuild their lives in a secure environment,” FJ-WoRDA stated.

In addition to advocating for these critical interventions, the organisation also used the occasion to acknowledge the historic achievement of Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, who was recently elected as Vice President.

The group described her victory as a major milestone for women in leadership and a testament to the fact that women are more than capable of occupying the highest offices in the country.

“Her election to this high office is a powerful statement that women can lead at the highest levels of governance. It is an inspiration to young girls and women across the nation, reaffirming that with determination, competence, and opportunity, they too can rise to positions of influence,” the statement read.

FJ-WoRDA reaffirmed its commitment to pushing for policies and initiatives that uplift women and rural communities.

The organisation called on all stakeholders, including the government, civil society organisations, and the private sector, to collaborate in building a more inclusive society where women and children are given the support they need to thrive.

“As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we remind all stakeholders that real progress requires deliberate action. We urge the government and all relevant bodies to work together in ensuring a more equitable and inclusive society where women’s contributions are valued and their rights protected,” the group concluded.