Accra: The Federation of Muslim Women's Associations in Ghana (FOMWAG), has urged its leadership to embrace strategic transformation and strengthen its structures to remain relevant and impactful in addressing the changing needs of Muslim women and girls.
According to Ghana News Agency, Hajia Safura Andani, the National Ameera of FOMWAG, stated that while the organization had historically promoted unity, empowerment, education, and service to Muslim women and girls, evolving circumstances necessitated a change in its approach. She made these remarks at the 2026 National Delegates Conference of FOMWAG in Accra, where she encouraged delegates to transition the organization beyond routine activities towards strategic interventions capable of delivering measurable impact.
Hajia Andani emphasized that the primary aim of the conference was to consider and adopt a strategic document to guide the future direction of the federation. She clarified that this document represented more than just approval; it was a commitment to action, setting direction, aligning priorities, and guiding decisions at all levels of FOMWAG.
She highlighted the importance of stronger coordination among national, regional, and district structures, asserting that FOMWAG's strength lay in its ability to harness collective efforts. Hajia Andani further urged delegates to ensure that the adoption of the strategic document translated into concrete action, emphasizing that real work would commence post-conference.
The National Ameera underscored that the strategy should serve as a roadmap for transformation within Muslim communities. She acknowledged differences in approaches at various levels of the organization but stressed the importance of unity in efforts. Additionally, she reminded delegates that their work was a form of service, which, if undertaken with the right intentions, represented an act of worship.
Sheikh Dr Haruna Zagoon-Sayeed, a religious scholar, encouraged FOMWAG leaders to become agents of change and lead efforts aimed at restructuring the organization. He acknowledged the necessity for a strategic plan for any organization seeking to achieve its objectives and described the conference as a pivotal opportunity for FOMWAG to redefine its direction.
Sheikh Zagoon-Sayeed noted that FOMWAG had operated for an extended period without a strategic plan and required a shift in mindset, approach, and focus. He reflected on the organization's 'golden age' when its voice was strongly recognized in national affairs and emphasized the need to reclaim that relevance. He insisted that FOMWAG's involvement was indispensable in addressing issues concerning Muslim women in Ghana.
He also urged delegates to return to their regions and communities as agents of change, implementing the new organizational direction. Sheikh Zagoon-Sayeed explained that change often progressed through stages of loss, doubt, discomfort, discovery, understanding, and integration. He advised leaders to expect resistance from those accustomed to the status quo but encouraged them to remain committed to their vision.
Sheikh Zagoon-Sayeed further emphasized that leadership in Islam, or Qiyadah, entailed responsibility and accountability. He urged leaders to ensure that successful initiatives were embedded in FOMWAG's systems, ensuring continuity beyond the tenure of those who initiated them. He commended FOMWAG for its role in promoting girl-child education and highlighted the importance of good manners in building strong communities. He called on the delegates to embrace change and work collectively to restore FOMWAG to a stronger position in Ghana's national development.