The Gender Centre for Empowering Development (GENCED) has intensified its advocacy for inclusive political participation and campaign finance reforms, bringing together stakeholders, civil society actors, women leaders, and youth representatives to discuss ways of strengthening Ghana's democratic institutions.

‎Addressing participants, GENCED Chief Executive Officer, Mrs. Esther Twaiah, underscored the importance of empowering women and young people to take up leadership roles and actively participate in governance. She noted that despite progress made over the years, women and youth continue to face barriers that limit their full participation in political processes.

‎According to her, GENCED remains committed to promoting democratic inclusion through research, capacity-building programmes, leadership training, and community engagement initiatives that equip citizens with the knowledge and confidence to contribute meaningfully to national development.

‎The event also highlighted the need for reforms in campaign financing to create a more level playing field for aspiring leaders, particularly women and young people who often struggle with financial constraints in electoral politics.

‎Speaking at the programme, Hon. Abigail Elorm Akwambia, Deputy National Women's Organizer of the National Democratic Congress and Chief Executive Officer of Microfinance and Small Loans Centre, called on public servants and community leaders to uphold transparency and accountability in their respective roles.

‎She cautioned against the politicization of public service and urged citizens to reject corruption in all its forms. 

‎Hon. Akwambia further encouraged voters to make informed choices based on competence, integrity, and development-oriented policies rather than monetary incentives offered during elections.

‎She stressed that vote-buying undermines democracy and often results in the election of leaders who prioritize personal interests over national development.

‎Participants at the event reiterated the need for sustained civic education, stronger democratic institutions, and policies that encourage greater participation of women and youth in governance. 

‎They expressed optimism that reforms in political financing and increased public awareness would help deepen democracy and promote inclusive national development.

‎The programme forms part of GENCED's broader efforts to foster citizen engagement, strengthen democratic accountability, and create opportunities for marginalized groups to have their voices heard in decision-making processes across the country.

Sompaonline.com/Bismarck Oppong