Accra: The USAID/LRI-funded 'Networking of Queen Mothers with Chiefs and Fulbe Women Leaders in the Upper West Region' project has significantly influenced the socio-cultural landscape for its beneficiaries, particularly Queen Mothers in the Upper West Region.
According to Ghana News Agency, the initiative has led to the formation of the Upper West Female Chiefs Associations, creating a network of Pognamine (Queen Mothers) to reinforce the chieftaincy institution. The project has cultivated a harmonious relationship between the Pognamine and the Fulbe community, with a special focus on women, and has fostered a supportive bond among Fulbe, Christian, and Muslim women in the region.
Pognaa Rosemary Bangzie Mumwilma, the Queen Mother of Duong Traditional Area and Coordinator of the project, highlighted the achievements in an interview as the world celebrated International Women's Day under the theme 'Accelerating Action'. The project has been pivotal in empowering Queen Mothers, enabling them to assume influential roles in societal development.
The six-month project, executed in four phases, included training in leadership skills, conflict resolution, and Preventing Violent Extremism (PVE). It also involved advocacy meetings and engagements with youth groups and Fulbe women leaders to address issues like substance abuse and peaceful elections.
The driving force behind this initiative was the realization that many Queen Mothers in northern Ghana lacked the necessary training for their roles. Pognaa Mumwilma, now Treasurer of the Upper West Female Chiefs Association, secured funding from USAID/Littorals Regional Initiative to implement this project, which saw participation from 96 Queen Mothers across 32 Traditional Areas.
Training sessions focused on essential skills such as leadership styles, effective communication, advocacy, and networking. These efforts have empowered the Queen Mothers and improved their collaboration with Fulbe women and youth, addressing challenges and reinforcing their roles as agents of positive change.
The project has also tackled the marginalization of minority ethnic groups and initiated advocacy against harmful cultural practices. Additionally, it has encouraged economic empowerment by facilitating skills training in trades like weaving and dressmaking for Fulbe women and girls.
Beneficiaries of the project, such as Pognaa Amamata Mumuni and Ms. Murihat Sidibe Suleman, have expressed that it has enriched their participation in social activities and strengthened the bond between Fulbe people and indigenous communities. Ms. Margaret Joyce Dangah, another participant, plans to impart skills like cashew juice extraction to Fulbe women, enhancing their economic opportunities.
The Queen Mothers who benefited from the training are anticipated to disseminate their knowledge further, promoting peace and unity in their communities. Pognaa Mumwilma also plans to present a communiqu© to paramount chiefs advocating the abolition of harmful cultural practices.
