A cross-section of women in Kasoa have vowed to take an active stand against corruption, abuse, and social injustice after a civic engagement session organized by the Awutu-Senya East Directorate of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE).
The forum, which brought together about 90 women, including traders, dressmakers, hairdressers, persons with disabilities, and young leaders, focused on empowering women to defend their rights, resist corruption, and promote accountability in their communities.
Held under the Participation, Accountability and Integrity for a Resilient Democracy (PAIReD) programme — an initiative supported by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), European Union, and Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) — the event educated participants on civic rights and key legal frameworks such as the Whistleblower’s Act, Right to Information Act, and Domestic Violence Act.
In her address, Mrs. Mary Ankrah, Municipal Director of the NCCE, described women as “pillars of community development,” emphasizing that empowering them with civic knowledge was essential for building transparent and corruption-resistant societies.
“When women understand their rights and reporting mechanisms, they can resist exploitation and help build stronger, fairer communities,” Mrs. Ankrah said.
The participants shared personal experiences of extortion, illegal levies, and sexual harassment, revealing how corruption undermines their livelihoods and dignity.
Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Doris Laryea, the Central East Police DOVVSU Coordinator, urged women to report all forms of abuse and corruption without fear, assuring them of protection.
“It’s time for women to say enough is enough. We must be bold and report those who exploit or abuse us — whether in offices, communities, or institutions meant to protect us,” she said.
Legal practitioner Ms. Victoria Homiah also schooled participants on Ghana’s anti-corruption laws, stressing that women suffer most when corruption blocks access to justice, education, and healthcare.
“Corruption thrives when citizens stay silent. The law is on our side — we must use it,” she emphasized.
The NCCE said the engagement is part of a broader national effort to encourage women to become active agents of integrity and accountability, ensuring their voices shape Ghana’s fight against corruption and discrimination.
