Accra: The Frimpong-Manso Institute has issued a clarion call for stronger institutional commitment towards empowering women, emphasizing that the advancement of women is essential for sustainable national development. In a message penned by a Fellow of the institute for the 2026 International Women's Day celebration, Beatrice Wiafe-Addai, a renowned breast surgeon and health advocate, highlighted the resilience, courage, and leadership of women globally.
According to Ghana Web, Dr. Wiafe-Addai, who serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Peace and Love Hospitals and is the President and Founder of Breast Care International, shared that her professional journey has provided her with insights into the formidable strength women exhibit, particularly during challenging times. "As a breast surgeon, I have seen the strength of women in their most vulnerable moments - fighting illness, protecting their families, and holding communities together," she remarked. She also noted the critical roles women play in shaping institutions and influencing policies.
However, Dr. Wiafe-Addai stressed that the celebration of International Women's Day should transcend symbolic gestures and be accompanied by meaningful actions to tackle persistent challenges facing women. "International Women's Day reminds us that empowering women is not charity; it is strategy. It is nation-building. It is sustainable development," she asserted.
She further underscored the pivotal role of the Frimpong-Manso Institute in fostering ethical leadership and national transformation. Institutions like the Frimpong-Manso Institute, she argued, must lead the charge in promoting inclusive governance, gender-responsive policies, and amplifying women's voices in decision-making processes.
Dr. Wiafe-Addai urged fellows of the institute and leaders from various sectors to exhibit integrity, mentor emerging women leaders, and advocate for policies that eliminate structural barriers to women's progress. "True leadership at the FMI is not defined by title - it is defined by impact," she emphasized.
The healthcare professional also expressed concern over ongoing inequalities faced by women and girls in the country, such as preventable health challenges, school dropout risks among girls, and the underrepresentation of women in leadership roles. She called for collective leadership and renewed commitment to empower women. "When women rise, institutions are strengthened. When women are healthy, nations are productive. When women lead with integrity, societies prosper," she said.
Dr. Wiafe-Addai concluded with a call for intentional mentorship, stronger support systems for women, and sustained investment in women's health and education. "When you empower a woman, you strengthen a family. When you educate a girl, you secure a nation's future. When you invest in women's health, you preserve generations," she stated.
The statement, issued by the Frimpong-Manso Institute and signed by its President, Paul Frimpong-Manso, concluded with a rallying cry: "Happy International Women's Day 2026. Let us lead. Let us uplift. Let us transform - together."