Speaking on the theme “Give to Gain: The Role of Giving in Fostering Gender Equality Leading to Collective Advancement — When Women Thrive, We All Rise,” during the commemoration of International Women’s Day 2026, Perpetual Ofori-Ampofo, President of the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA), highlighted the importance of intentional giving in promoting gender equality and societal progress.
According to her, the occasion serves as a reminder of a profound truth: meaningful progress is often rooted in the willingness to give.
She explained that when society provides opportunities, it nurtures productivity; when it offers support, it builds confidence; and when it grants space and respect, it creates environments where everyone can flourish.
“Giving is not merely about charity,” she noted. “It is about making deliberate investments in people.”
Mrs. Ofori-Ampofo also reflected on her own leadership journey, acknowledging that while progress has been made, more work remains to ensure women have equal representation in leadership spaces.
“As President of GRNMA, I have played my part, but sometimes I feel we are not there yet.
When you look at some national leadership structures and council compositions, it is clear that we have not created enough space for women,” she said. “There is still much work to be done to ensure women’s voices are visible, valued, and respected.”
She stressed the need for policies and institutional reforms that open doors for women rather than create barriers.
The GRNMA President emphasized that empowering women through education, resources, international opportunities, and the protection of their rights not only benefits individuals but also strengthens families, communities, and nations.
“History shows that societies flourish when women thrive,” she stated. “An empowered woman becomes a catalyst for transformation—driving innovation, supporting her family, and contributing meaningfully to economic and social development.”
However, she underscored that the responsibility of promoting gender equality does not rest solely on women.
Achieving meaningful progress, she said, requires a collective effort from all sectors of society. Governments must implement enabling policies, institutions must champion fairness and inclusion, and communities must challenge harmful stereotypes.
She also called on men to actively support the movement toward equality.
“Men must stand as allies in the pursuit of equality,” she emphasized. “I am particularly pleased to see men present here today. Your presence matters because you have a role to play in helping us reach where we want to go.”
Mrs. Ofori-Ampofo further highlighted the importance of everyday acts of giving—encouraging young girls with dreams, mentoring women in their professional journeys, supporting women-led initiatives, and respecting women’s voices in all spaces.
She urged participants to see the day not just as a celebration but as a call to action.
“Let us commit to building a culture of intentional and continuous giving—one where we lift each other up, open doors for those coming behind us, and celebrate women’s achievements not only today, but every day,” she said.
She concluded by reminding the audience of the enduring value of respect and solidarity.
“The same people we meet on our way up are often the same people we meet on our way down. Let us therefore demand opportunities, recognize our shared humanity, and support one another,” she said.
“When women have the space to thrive, everyone benefits—through stronger economies, healthier families, innovative institutions, and more peaceful societies.”
By Sampson Kumah Ifeetwube Elvis
About The Author
