The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) of the Obuasi Municipal Assembly, Madam Faustilove Appiah Kannin, has called for increased investment in women as a catalyst for sustainable development, emphasising that empowering women ultimately benefits entire communities and nations.
Delivering a keynote address at the 2026 International Women’s Day celebration held at the AngloGold Ashanti School Park, the MCE underscored the significance of the theme, “Give to Gain: Advancing Women Together,” describing it as a powerful reminder of the shared responsibility to uplift women across all sectors of society.
The event, organised in partnership with AngloGold Ashanti, brought together traditional leaders, corporate executives, education officials, Assembly Members, women’s groups, and media representatives to celebrate the achievements and resilience of women in the Municipality.
According to Madam Faustilove, investing in women is not only a moral imperative but also a strategic approach to development.
“When we give a woman access to education, we raise an informed generation. When we empower a woman with skills or capital, we build entrepreneurs and strengthen the local economy,” she stated.
She further emphasised that inclusive governance is key to progress, noting that societies that exclude women from decision-making processes limit their potential for holistic development.
Highlighting her commitment to women’s advancement, the MCE referenced her popular slogan “Obaa no aa”—a call to action that reflects her dedication to supporting women in Obuasi, from mothers and entrepreneurs to emerging leaders.
She also pointed to a historic milestone within the Assembly, noting that for the first time, the Municipality is led by both a female Municipal Chief Executive and a female Municipal Coordinating Director.
Describing this as a symbolic breakthrough, she said the development should inspire young girls to aspire to leadership roles.
“To the young girls here today, your dreams are valid, your voices matter, and your potential is limitless,” she affirmed.
Madam Faustilove acknowledged the role of partnerships, particularly with AngloGold Ashanti, in advancing women-focused initiatives in Obuasi. She cited ongoing interventions in health, economic empowerment, and skills development as evidence of progress.
However, she stressed that efforts should be made to ensure equal access to opportunities, calling on stakeholders to commit resources and advocacy toward women’s empowerment.
Drawing inspiration from Ghanaian educationist James Emman Kwegyir Aggrey, the MCE reiterated the importance of investing in women as a pathway to national development. Quoting his famous assertion that educating a woman equates to educating a nation, she urged stakeholders to adopt a more inclusive approach to development.
“If we want our Municipality and our nation to stand firm, we must strengthen both legs—men and women,” she noted.
As the celebration concluded, Madam Faustilove called on both men and women to embrace the spirit of unity, generosity, and collaboration.
She urged all stakeholders to move beyond rhetoric and take practical steps to support women, stressing that advancing women is essential to advancing Obuasi.
“Let us celebrate our women, invest in our women, and walk forward together,” she said.
The 2026 International Women’s Day celebration served as a renewed call to action for stakeholders to deepen efforts toward gender equality and inclusive development within the Municipality.
The event also took the opportunity to recognise distinguished men and women for their outstanding contributions to humanity. Among the awardees was the Managing Director of AGA, Eng. Pobee, the Obuasi Municipal Assembly’s Physical Planning Officer, Madam Agnes Amoah, and the Obuasi East Human Resource Officer, Madam Stella Ofori Atta.
Ernest Kofi Offen, ISD
Obuasi
