GROW Greater Rural Opportunities for Women at MEDA – July 2018
In July 2018, I had the privilege of witnessing a pivotal moment in the fight for women’s land rights in Northern Ghana as part of the GROW project. Attending the Land Tenure Advocacy Meeting hosted by the Upper West Regional House of Chiefs was an experience that underscored the project’s commitment to creating lasting change. Seeing 26 Chiefs and 25 Queen Mothers gather to discuss increasing land rights for women was a powerful testament to the project’s impact and the growing recognition of women’s crucial role in agriculture. The energy in the room was palpable, a mix of determination and hope, as traditional leaders engaged in a dialogue that challenged long-standing norms.
The meeting was expertly facilitated, with key figures like Karen Walsh, the GROW Country Project Manager, and Rev. Father Clement Mweyang Aapengnuo, a strong advocate for land tenure rights, providing valuable insights. Eric Dalinpuo, GROW’s Gender Coordinator, skillfully guided the discussion, ensuring that the gendered dimensions of land access were thoroughly explored. The open dialogue that ensued was remarkable. Despite the scheduled coffee break, attendees remained engaged, eager to share their experiences and concerns. This demonstrated a genuine commitment to addressing the issue and a willingness to challenge the status quo. The President of the Upper West Regional House of Chiefs even spoke about the need to eliminate outdated traditional practices to build a more equitable society.
The meeting highlighted the complex issue of land ownership in Ghana, where communal land tenure systems often leave women vulnerable and insecure. The lack of female Chiefs and the prevailing power imbalance further exacerbate these challenges. The goal of drafting a Communique to secure longer access to land for GROW women was a testament to the project’s dedication to creating tangible change. While time constraints prevented the Communique’s immediate completion, the Chiefs’ commitment to drafting it soon after the meeting was a significant step forward. Seeing a draft delivered to MEDA within a week demonstrated a level of responsiveness that was truly encouraging. As the GROW project neared its conclusion, it was clear that the seeds of change had been planted, and the momentum for women’s land rights was growing. This meeting served as a powerful reminder of the importance of collaborative efforts in driving social and economic empowerment for women in Northern Ghana.