I always look forward to International Women Day (IWD) which is celebrated on 8th March every year.
The day is a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle and hardships of gender inequality.
IWD is a day to advocate for gender equality, and empower women to strive and eradicate gender-based violence, systemic barriers, socio-cultural practices faced by women in their personal and professional lives.
As we celebrate the incredible achievements of women, we should be mindful of the fact that women especially in Africa, continue to be discriminated against. Often, women are subjected to physical abuse, psychological abuse, stigma, public humiliation, and in some cases, death by stoning or burning.
Examples of such socio-cultural practices in Ghana are women accused of witchcraft and held in witch camps against their will.
Widows face similar social stigma, discrimination, and violence often blamed for causing their husbands deaths.
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is rooted in traditional and tribal beliefs and is a severe violation of human rights.
These gender-based violence and violation of human rights undermine the health and well- being of young girls and women, the most vulnerable in society.
As women, we must rise up and advocate for eradication of these cultural and traditional practices that negatively affect the well-being of women and girls to ensure that they are protected.
Sister Communicators Network, Ghana, I encourage you to be the voice for the voiceless. We have a unique opportunity and responsibility to communicate hope for the vulnerable and marginalized in our society and change the narrative. Let us continue to empower each other and create a more just and equal world for all.
There are incredible and powerful stories and testimonies of the work women do that are yet to be told. These stories are about our ministries and the people we serve. Let us forge ahead and be “Pilgrims of Hope”, the theme of the Jubilee Year 2025 and bring hope to the world through communication.
Happy International Women’s Day
Sr. Dr. Lucy Hometowu, SMMC
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
Fellow of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, London
Superior General, Sisters of Mary Mother of the Church
