Leadership and Advocacy Training Empowers Women Farmers in Northern Ghana
The Savannah Women Farmers Association (SWFA) recently conducted a leadership, governance, and advocacy training workshop in Tamale, aimed at strengthening the internal technical capacity of its leaders and members. This initiative is part of the Forest and Farm Facility project, which is being implemented by SWFA with funding support from the Food and Agriculture Organization.
The training brought together approximately 60 leaders of SWFA’s Village Savings and Loans Associations from various communities across the Northern Region, including Savelugu, Nanton, Mion, Tolon, and Kumbungu Districts. The goal of the workshop was to empower participants with knowledge and skills in leadership, governance, and advocacy, enabling them to effectively participate in decision-making processes and promote sustainable food systems.
Madam Salamatu Sakara, Chairperson of SWFA, highlighted that the training was designed to address existing capacity gaps that limited the association’s effectiveness in mentoring emerging leaders and engaging in policy advocacy. She emphasized that the initiative aligned with SWFA’s broader goals of promoting inclusive participation, gender equity, and women’s empowerment in agribusiness and community development, while contributing to the Ghana Federation of Forest and Farm Producers Agenda 2030.
She outlined the expected outcomes of the training, which include:
- Improved leadership and governance competencies among SWFA leaders
- Increased representation of women farmers in local decision-making processes
- Strengthened accountability systems within the association
Madam Sakara expressed her vision for building strong leaders and advocates who can represent the interests of women farmers at both local and national levels. She also emphasized the importance of engaging effectively with stakeholders and championing women’s voices in agricultural development and policy reforms.
Facilitators and Key Themes
Madam Humaimatu Abdul-Wahab, representing the Ghana Technical and Vocational Education and Training Service in the Northern Region, facilitated the sessions. She guided participants through topics on governance, leadership, and advocacy. Her emphasis on transparency, accountability, and teamwork in leadership encouraged participants to apply the knowledge and tools gained to attract the attention of stakeholders and investors to their programmes and activities.
Mr Zakaria Abukari, one of the participants from Tampion, commended SWFA for the initiative, describing it as a timely intervention that would help women farmers become more organized and confident in engaging with duty bearers.
Interactive Learning Approach
The participatory training featured group discussions, case studies, and role plays designed to deepen participants’ understanding of practical leadership and advocacy approaches. These interactive methods provided a hands-on learning experience, allowing participants to apply theoretical concepts in real-world scenarios.
Impact and Future Prospects
The training has been widely recognized as a valuable opportunity for SWFA leaders to enhance their skills and knowledge. It not only strengthens the association’s capacity but also contributes to the broader goal of empowering women in agriculture and community development. By fostering a culture of transparency, accountability, and effective leadership, SWFA is paving the way for sustainable and inclusive growth in the region.
As the association continues to implement such initiatives, it is expected that the impact will be felt across multiple communities, leading to improved livelihoods and greater participation of women in local and national decision-making processes.