International Women’s Day of Peace and Disarmament Celebrated in Somanya
The Eastern Regional Peace Council (ERPC), in collaboration with the Yilo Krobo Municipal Assembly, commemorated the International Women’s Day of Peace and Disarmament on Thursday, 28th May 2026, at the Somanya Taxi Rank under the theme: “From Inclusion to Impact: Women Leading Peace and Local Governance.”
The event brought together government officials, traditional leaders, security agencies, women’s groups, students, transport unions, persons with disabilities, and community members to celebrate the vital role of women in peacebuilding, leadership, and sustainable development.
Promoting Women’s Participation in Peace and Governance
The celebration sought to promote the active inclusion of women in peacebuilding, leadership, and local governance processes while creating awareness on the importance of peace, tolerance, social cohesion, and collective responsibility in community development.
The programme also provided an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the contributions of women and institutions that continue to support peacebuilding and conflict resolution efforts within the Eastern Region.
Call for Peace, Unity, and Collective Responsibility
Delivering the welcome address, Hon. Francis Addo Akumatey, Municipal Chief Executive for the Yilo Krobo Municipal Assembly, welcomed participants and expressed appreciation to the Eastern Regional Peace Council for partnering with the Assembly to commemorate the occasion.
He emphasized the importance of peace, unity, and collective responsibility in driving development and encouraged residents to continue supporting peacebuilding initiatives and women empowerment programmes within their communities.
Women as Drivers of Sustainable Peace
Speaking at the event, Dr. Mark Boadu, Chairman of the Eastern Regional Peace Council, highlighted the indispensable role women play in mediation, conflict resolution, peacebuilding, and local governance.
He noted that empowering women and creating opportunities for their meaningful participation in decision-making processes are essential for achieving sustainable peace and development. He therefore encouraged community members and institutions to support women’s leadership and active involvement in governance and peace initiatives.
Breaking Barriers and Advancing Inclusion
The keynote speaker, Dr. Gloria Sarku Kumawu, Deputy Clerk to the Parliament of Ghana, commended women across the Eastern Region for their contributions to peacebuilding and national development.
She encouraged women and young girls to remain confident, ambitious, and committed to leadership and community service. According to her, women’s empowerment should not be viewed as competition with men but rather as a partnership that strengthens society and promotes development.
Dr. Kumawu further called for the elimination of cultural stereotypes and gender-based discrimination that continue to hinder women’s full participation in leadership and governance.
Strengthening Peace Through Inclusion
The celebration reinforced the importance of inclusiveness, gender equality, and community participation in promoting peaceful coexistence and sustainable development. Participants were encouraged to continue supporting efforts aimed at increasing women’s representation and leadership in peacebuilding and governance structures.
Participating Institutions
The programme was attended by representatives from:
- Eastern Regional Peace Council (ERPC)
- Yilo Krobo Municipal Assembly
- Security Agencies
- Transport Unions Association
- Women’s Groups
- Schools and Pupils
- People with Disabilities
- Market Women Associations
- Traditional and Community Leaders
Conclusion
The International Women’s Day of Peace and Disarmament celebration provided an important platform for dialogue, recognition, and advocacy on the role of women in building peaceful and resilient communities. The event reaffirmed the commitment of stakeholders to promoting gender inclusion, strengthening women’s leadership, and advancing sustainable peace and development across the Eastern Region.
