Empowering Queen Mothers to Lead Change: Highlights from the Inception Workshop on Securing Women’s Land and Property Rights

COLANDEF is reaffirming its commitment to advancing women’s land rights in Ghana by empowering Queen Mothers to play an active role in land governance and policymaking. Through the Securing Women’s Land and Property Rights Project, we are working to transform Queen Mothers into advocates and educators who can champion land and property rights for women across the country.

A significant milestone in this initiative took place at the Inception Workshop for Phase 2 of the project, held on 8th and 9th October 2024 at the Golden Key Hotel, Accra. Organized in collaboration with the Queen Mothers' Platform, Ghana (QMP), the workshop welcomed 21 Paramount Queen Mothers from selected traditional areas across Ghana, representing diverse communities such as Osudoku, Ningo, Drobo, Obogu, Prang, Techiman, Akyem Abuakwa, Duayaw Nkwanta, Agona Nsabaa, Mankessim, Senya Breku, Bunkpurugu, Ahamansu, Buipe, Mafi, Logba, Sefwi Wiawso, Upper Dixcove, and Busua. The President of the QMP, Nana Amponsah Dokua III, was also in attendance, as her traditional area was one of those participating in the project. .

The primary goal of the workshop was to equip Queen Mothers with the knowledge and tools needed to educate women within their respective traditional areas about land and property rights. Recognizing the critical role that Queen Mothers play as custodians of culture and influential figures in their communities, the workshop aimed to harness their unique position to drive  change at the local level. This approach seeks to empower Queen Mothers to lead efforts that challenge cultural and societal norms impeding women's access to land.

In a harmonious blend of cultural celebration and progressive advocacy, the Republic of Ghana witnessed a momentous occasion on August 22, 2023. Led by the gracious presence of the 1st Lady, Rebecca Akufo Addo, the event brought together Queen mothers from the Greater Accra Region to commemorate the Homowo season. Beyond the festivities, the gathering shone a spotlight on issues central to the well-being of women and girls. Amidst the vibrant atmosphere, discussions revolved around the noteworthy "WeAreEqual" campaign, an initiative by the Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD) aimed at advancing gender equity across the continent. With influential voices converging, this gathering proved that tradition and modern progress can intertwine to create a brighter, more equitable future for all.