Accra: Young African women have been challenged to refuse to be defined by gender stereotypes, maintain high standards, and boldly claim their place in leadership and decision-making spaces. Dr Obaapanin Oforiwaa Adu, Director of General Administration at the University of Media Arts and Communication (UniMAC), emphasized this during the 2026 CAMFED Association (CAMA) Summit held in Accra, which gathered young women from CAMFED consortium countries to reflect on their experiences, celebrate achievements, and discuss shaping a more inclusive future.
According to Ghana News Agency, Dr Adu stressed that women must not only enter spaces where they have historically been underrepresented but also ensure that their voices are heard. She urged young women to be courageous in pursuing opportunities, especially in areas traditionally dominated by men. Dr Adu advised them not to wait for invitations before taking their rightful place in decision-making spaces, encouraging them to make their voices heard at all levels of leadership.
The summit, under the theme 'Rooted in Lived Experience: Shaping the Future,' included participants from Ghana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Tanzania, and Kenya. It focused on policy, systems change, partnerships, and inclusive education for girls and persons with disabilities. Dr Adu highlighted the importance of empowering young women for Africa's future and called for deliberate efforts to equip them with the skills, opportunities, and confidence needed to pursue their dreams.
Dr Adu also encouraged participants to sharpen their digital skills, build professional networks, and use technology to promote African narratives. She urged them to draw inspiration from African women breaking new ground in male-dominated sectors and to use the knowledge and opportunities available to create positive change in their communities.
Madam Fairuza Abdul-Rashid Safian, Executive Director of CAMFED Ghana, stated that the summit was designed to unlock opportunities for CAMA members and provide a platform to address challenges such as unemployment, access to education, skills development, health, and well-being. The summit also facilitated discussions on challenges, achievements, renewed commitments, and the future direction of the Association.
Dr Esther Okwah Akumaning, Board Chair of CAMFED Ghana, encouraged participants to share ideas, build partnerships, and take deliberate steps towards creating their desired future. Ramatu Abubakari, CAMA Ghana National Chairperson, expressed appreciation for the opportunities provided by CAMFED and affirmed CAMA's commitment to supporting and positively impacting other young women.
The Campaign for Female Education (CAMFED) Ghana, launched in 1998, focuses on tackling girls' exclusion from education and has expanded to 46 districts. Its work supports vulnerable girls to complete secondary education and transition into further education, training, or employment. The CAMFED Association, composed of young women educated with CAMFED support, has evolved into a significant peer-support and leadership network. By early 2026, its Ghana membership had grown to over 84,800, with members actively supporting girls' education, mentoring younger women, and contributing to community development.