The First Lady, Lordina Mahama, has underscored the need for women to be economically empowered to uplift their communities.

She told fellow First Ladies on the sidelines of the 39th African Union Summit in Addis Ababa on Sunday that women remain the backbone of local economies and must be given the necessary support.

“When we empower a woman economically, we empower an entire family and they uplift the whole community,” she emphasised at the 30th General Assembly of the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD).

In view of this, Mrs Mahama said her foundation would, in 2026, deepen efforts to empower women in small and medium-scale businesses to improve profits while helping them build enterprises and live independent, fulfilling lives.

She indicated that the foundation would align with government initiatives such as the 24-hour economy policy and the proposed Women Development Bank to explore further opportunities for women entrepreneurs.

“The foundation will collaborate to ensure that women and girls receive the capital support they need. We will introduce basic training in beading, hairdressing technology and practical skills,” she stated.

In the area of health, the First Lady said the foundation would continue its outreach programme to provide free nationwide screening, examination, counselling and treatment for communities unable to afford medical care.

She told the gathering that, in partnership with the Ghana AIDS Commission, the foundation had conducted comprehensive screening in the Greater Accra Region and Bono Region, providing HIV testing and counselling, syphilis and hepatitis B screening, free antenatal education and safe delivery guidance, breast and eye screening with basic care, as well as general check-ups and treatment.

“Thousands of women, children and the elderly have received early detection, guidance and treatment. Lives have been saved and we combat stigma, especially towards people with HIV and AIDS, promoting compassion and support,” she indicated.

Additionally, she said the foundation had built three modern maternity and children’s wards at Bole, Nkoranza and Bodom, with another facility nearing completion at Asukoko. It has also renovated facilities and donated critical equipment, including hospital beds, incubators and ultrasound machines nationwide.

“Going forward, we will expand the interventions to hard-to-reach communities, support facility construction, provide hospital equipment and promote health education through local leaders. Good health is the foundation. When women and children are healthy, families are stronger and nations prosper,” he said.

On education, Mrs Mahama underlined that 40 brilliant but underprivileged junior high school girls were on scholarship, stating that “education unlocks potential. Every girl with the right support becomes a leader, change-maker and nation builder”.

“I invite all partners, institutions and friends to join this journey. Let us build systems that protect women and children and give them hope. My office remains a true partner in this important work,” she remarked.