The First Lady, Mrs. Rebecca Akufo-Addo has called on Ghanaians and the world to appreciate how both genders bring unique qualities, perspectives and attributes that make the world a balanced place.
According to her, “the time has come when we must recognize that balance is desirable, balance is vital, balance is humanity’s cry for greatness.”
With multiple studies showing that trillions of dollars can be added to global growth by advancing gender equality or balance, she said, it’s certainly not for lack of evidence about the economic benefits of inclusiveness
It is therefore to no one’s benefit that the business community and the economy have been more resistant to change.
She pointed out that “companies with female leadership tend to do better in many respects. It is clear that gender balance in business can’t be purely a diversity issue.”
“It’s an economic issue, and addressing it can benefit business and economic performance, thereby impacting all stakeholders.
The First Lady made this known when she hosted about 400 women from across the country to an awards event to climax the celebration of this year’s International Womens’ Day at the Movenpick Ambassador Hotel in Accra.
Marked under the theme, “Balance for better”, the event was used to recognize and celebrate the contribution of a number of amazing Ghanaian women, in the areas of Education, Health, Social entrepreneurship, Agriculture, Advocacy and Inclusion, Arts and Culture, Innovation and Outstanding Leadership.
Constance Ama Emefa Edjeani-Afenu received the Outstanding leadership award for being the only female Brigadier General in Ghana.
Earlier this week, the First Lady met with a group of market women and street vendors on Monday, and with another group of remarkable women who are partnering her to provide skills training and mentorship to some young ladies from the Accra Municipality under the “Terema” and the “Because I want to be” initiatives of the Rebecca Foundation.
She said the stories of these women, calls to optimism within us which allows us to do better, to climb higher, to push harder and to believe not just in ourselves but in others.
Source: Thepressradio.com
