Change does not occur immediately. It requires clarity and focus on what needs to change to achieve the desired goal. We have reflected on this and identified the following six (6) critical areas that must change if we are to realize our vision.

1. A Change in Mind-set

The customary predispositions and perceptions of society as well as entrenched patriarchal tendencies against women and particularly Queen Mothers as just ceremonial heads should be changed. Women’s ability to participate in decision making processes at the local through to the national levels is influenced by either outright discrimination or unconscious bias.  This is what would need to change if we are to realize our vision.  There should be increased recognition of Queen Mothers representation and participation in decision making spaces at all levels.

2. Leadership Commitment

We appreciate that it would be difficult to bring about a change in the customary land sector and governance without committed Queen Mothers as leaders to ensure that change happens. Committed leadership is required at all the different levels; the National, Regional, District and Traditional Area levels. The leadership we need is one in which words are backed up by committed and specific actions to achieve results.  

3. Women's Voice and Agency

We fully recognize that change cannot occur without the voice and agency of those most affected, namely all Queen Mothers in Ghana.  They must be in the forefront of articulating the barriers and challenges they face.  They must also take up empowerment and advocacy programs and strategize to participate in policy planning and implementation to increase their participation in governance.

4. Improved Gender Responsive Policies and Customs

Women’s visibility, participation and leadership cannot happen without changes in national policies and traditions. As state and non-state actors implement policies, our hope is that institutions and individuals will become more gender responsive and inclusive.

5. Ability to Advance Queen Mothers

We believe there must be increased capacity and knowledge about good governance and strategies for the progression of all Queen Mothers in Ghana. Thus, we will ensure that all Queen Mothers are involved in continuous learning towards empowering them to participate and advocate for gender responsive policies.

6. Accountability

What we have learned from others who have sought to promote women’s participation and leadership is the importance of accountability in turning pretention into action. Organizations need to be held accountable on their professed commitment to diversity and inclusion. Thus, the National Executives need to hold their Regional Executives accountable, and Regional Executives need to hold their District Executives accountable, likewise, District Executives need to hold Traditional level members accountable just as Traditional Level Executives also hold members accountable for an increased Queen Mothers participation and leadership.  Accountability can happen when measurable targets are set, when there is data to track progress, when reviews are taken to reflect on progress or lack thereof and action is taken to address findings.