The National Peace Council (NPC), with support from United Nations Development Program(UNDP) Ghana and the Canadian High Commission, has launched a new Gender Policy aimed at reshaping how peace initiatives are designed and implemented across the country.
The policy will help to mainstream gender and create a more inclusive and equitable environment in all peacebuilding operations.
The Governing Board Member of NPC, Madam Susan Aryeetey, who spoke at the launch on Thursday, in Accra, described the policy as a practical expression of the NPC’s commitment to inclusive peacebuilding.
She recognized the unique experiences, needs, and contributions of both women and men in peace and security hence urging staff to move beyond discussion and ensure gender considerations shapes everyday decisions.
The Executive Secretary of NPC, Dr. George Amoh, called the policy a milestone for Ghana’s peace architecture because the real work begins with understanding how the document translates into daily operations, from planning to budgeting and field engagement.
The launch was followed by a two-day national training programme under the theme “Gender Mainstreaming towards Effective and Inclusive Peacebuilding for Sustainable Development.”
Participants were trained to integrate gender considerations into planning and budgeting, to design programmes that respond to the realities of women and men, to build a gender-friendly workplace, and to strengthen partnerships that advance gender equality.
Judith Twumwaa, ISD
