Jamestown: Naa Tsoolo Kakalor I, Right-Wing Paramount Queen for Ngleshie Alata-Jamestown, has reiterated the need for sustained investment in women empowerment, mental health, and maternal care for national development. She emphasized that empowering women has a multiplier effect on families and communities, contributing to improved livelihoods and social development.
According to Ghana News Agency, Naa Tsoolo Kakalor I, who is also the CEO of the Green Butterfly NPO, made these remarks following a high-level visit to Jamestown by Madam Berenice Owen-Jones, the Australian High Commissioner to Ghana. The visit, which began at the Adanse Stool House in Jamestown, aimed to assess community needs and strengthen partnerships between local leadership and international stakeholders in promoting development, maternal health, and mental wellness.
The delegation also visited the Jamestown Maternity Home to evaluate the facility's condition and explore support for Naa Tsoolo Kakalor I's Mental Health Initiative, which focuses on vulnerable women in the community. Over the past 16 years, her organization has supported small-scale artisans, predominantly women, through skills training and entrepreneurship programs. She highlighted initiatives such as soap-making, jewelry production, sewing, and a clothing line, as well as plans to establish a Skills Training and Mental Wellness Centre in the Eastern Region.
Madam Owen-Jones stated that maternal health and women's empowerment are key priorities under Australia's Direct Aid Programme in Ghana. Her visit aimed to better understand the community challenges, especially at the maternity ward, where she observed the dedication of staff and the need for additional equipment and improved antenatal care. She expressed concern about child mortality rates and emphasized the importance of strengthening support systems to improve outcomes for mothers and children.
Dr. Philomina Bonsu, Sub-Metro Director for Aseidu Keteke, expressed appreciation for the visit, describing it as timely and beneficial for improving maternal healthcare delivery. Dr. Bonsu, who is also the Director of the Jamestown Maternity Home, noted that the facility, serving the community for over 70 years, continues to face infrastructure and equipment challenges despite staff commitment. The visit provided an opportunity to highlight these challenges and contribute to efforts to improve care for mothers and newborns.
The visit underscored a shared commitment to advancing community development, improving maternal health services, and promoting mental wellness in underserved communities.