UWR: WYPSI & GAF advocate for Women’s Participation in Military & UN Peacekeeping Operations

In a bold initiative aimed at fostering gender equality and enhancing women’s participation in the military and peacekeeping efforts, the Woman Youth, Peace and Security Institute (WYPSI) of the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Center (KAIPTC), in collaboration with the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF), has initiated a nationwide campaign.

The campaign, supported by funding from the Elsie Initiative Fund from Canada, kicked started it’s two days tour of Senior High Schools in the Upper West Region of Ghana.

The primary objective of the campaign is to encourage more women to consider careers in the military and to increase their involvement in United Nations peacekeeping operations.

Recognizing the critical role women can play in conflict resolution and peacebuilding efforts, the initiative seeks to create more opportunities for women to serve in these capacities.

To kick-start the campaign in the Upper West Region, representatives from WYPSI, GAF, and other key stakeholders visited the Wa Senior High Schools and other Selected Senior High Schools in the Upper West Region and engaged with students, particularly young women, to raise awareness about the various opportunities available in the military and the importance of women’s participation in peacekeeping missions.

During these engagements, students were informed about the diverse roles women can undertake within the military, including combat and non-combat roles, as well as the significance of their contributions to maintaining peace and security both domestically and internationally.

Additionally, the campaign highlighted the potential for personal and professional growth within the military, as well as the opportunities for education and training it offers.

Speaking about the campaign, resource persons, emphasized the importance of breaking gender stereotypes and promoting inclusivity within the military and peacekeeping sectors.

Senior Warrant Officer II, Patience Abla Logah stated, “Women have a unique perspective and skill set to offer in conflict situations. By encouraging more women to join the military and participate in peacekeeping operations, we can create more inclusive and effective responses to global challenges”.

The nationwide campaign is expected to continue its outreach efforts in other regions of Ghana, aiming to inspire and empower women to pursue careers in the military and contribute to peace and security both locally and globally. With the support of the Elsie Initiative Fund and other partners, WYPSI and GAF are committed to making significant strides towards gender equality in these critical sectors.
Source: Kanyor Bagah Henry|myghanawatch.com|sdfatawu@gmail.com|