EVE International Foundation, a women’s non-profit organisation with the largest network of female professionals, led by HRH Lady Julia Osei Tutu, has marked International Women’s Day with a health and legal education programme at Makola Market.
The event, themed “Celebrating Women at the Grassroots for Economic Empowerment,” aimed to honour market women and educate them on health issues, estate management, and succession planning. The EVE Health and Legal groups, two of the foundation’s 15 professional networks, led the initiative.
A key highlight was a free health screening session, which included blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol checks, as well as general wellness assessments. A team of female doctors, pharmacists, and nurses screened and treated over 200 market women.
Mrs. Catherine Morton, Executive Director of EVE International Foundation, emphasised the importance of grassroots engagement and economic empowerment in bridging the gender gap. She highlighted the critical role of market women in the economy and society.
Dr. Vanessa Kabu, a medical practitioner and board member of the Foundation, addressed health concerns such as hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol, which are prevalent among market women. She provided guidance on managing these conditions and adopting preventive health measures.
On legal matters, Yram Abra Attakumah Esq. educated participants on estate management and succession planning, emphasising the benefits of creating a will to secure their families’ futures.
Madam Yayra Portia Klu, EVE Envoy for Governance, called for increased representation of women in leadership and policymaking. She also advocated for targeted policies, including the establishment of a Women’s Development Bank, urging market women to take advantage of its services once operational.
This initiative is the first in a series of programs aimed at supporting women in the informal sector across Ghana. Similar engagements will be held in other major markets throughout the year to ensure consistent access to health and legal education.
The programme was supported by Quality Insurance Company, Ghana Health Service, and MTN Ghana.
