Accra:Interfaith women have been encouraged to take a leading role in environmental conservation through activities such as recycling and waste management, which can also create sustainable livelihoods.
According to Ghana News Agency, Reverend Professor Ebenezer Yaw Blasu, Director of the Allison M. Howell Centre for Religion, Environment, Science and Development at the Akrofi-Christaller Institute, emphasized the unique position of women to care for the environment due to their nurturing roles. He addressed the Faith to Action Women's Conference 2026 in Accra, highlighting the potential for economic opportunities through the conversion of waste materials, like coconut husks, into useful products such as briquettes.
The conference, held on October 7 and organized by the Centre for Interfaith Studies and Engagement in Africa, gathered women from various religious backgrounds to explore practical and eco-friendly economic activities. Rev. Prof. Blasu noted the potential of organic waste to be turned into manure for farming, citing his wife's success in using homemade fertilizers for growing vegetables.
Mrs. Benedicta Kwakye, the Special Guest of Honour, stressed the importance of integrating women's leadership in decision-making processes related to climate change, food security, and sustainable development. She noted that women often face the greatest challenges when essential resources become scarce, and advocated for their involvement in shaping policies on climate justice and peace.
Mrs. Kwakye also highlighted the common values of stewardship and care across different faiths, urging participants to engage in dialogue and collaboration. She called for actions such as listening to and involving women from diverse backgrounds in community decisions to promote sustainable development.
The Faith to Action Women's Conference aims to empower women to turn their religious beliefs into actions that foster peace and societal development.