Vice President Calls for Greater Investment in Women Entrepreneurs to Drive Africa’s Growth

Accra, Oct. 16, GNA – The Vice President, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, has called on women’s rights organisations across Africa to continue investing in girls and women entrepreneurs to accelerate inclusive and sustainable economic growth on the continent.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 27th Zonta International District 18 Conference in Accra, the Vice President urged non-governmental organisations to partner with governments to advance gender equality.

“In Ghana, the government is committed to gender equality. We have expanded access to education, supported women in leadership, and strengthened protection against gender-based violence,” she said. “But laws and policies must be complemented by partnerships with people and organisations in order for real transformation to take place in our communities.”

The conference, themed “Realising Equality: Building for an Even Brighter Future for Women and Girls in Africa,” brought together representatives from 12 Zonta District 18 member countries, including Ghana, Benin, Burkina Faso, Kenya, Nigeria, and Côte d’Ivoire. It also marked 55 years of Zonta International’s presence in Africa.

Reflecting on the theme, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang encouraged participants to make the movement for gender equality “real and lasting.” She commended Zonta International for championing women’s rights and empowerment through advocacy, education, and partnerships with global organisations such as the United Nations.

“Your presence reminds us of the strong bond of solidarity that unites us as Africans as we work to empower women and girls,” she said, praising Zonta and other advocacy groups for complementing the work of Ghana’s Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection.

Commonwealth Secretary-General Madam Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey also addressed the gathering, applauding progress made toward gender equality but noting that the mission remained “an unfinished business.”

“Gender equality is the foundation for strong and resilient societies,” she said, urging greater investment in training girls and women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). “If girls are excluded from STEM today, they are excluded from prosperity tomorrow.”

Madam Salla Tuominen, President of Zonta International, described the event as a moment of “reflection and renewal” as Africa continues to champion girl-child education and women’s empowerment.

“Our work must be enduring. Whether we are advocating education or ending violence against women, we must build systems and cultures that last beyond our own lifetimes,” she stated.

As part of the conference, Zonta International unveiled a new STEM scholarship project, which will sponsor 16 young women between the ages of 16 and 35 with $10,000 each starting in 2026, to support their education and innovation in science and technology fields.