Empowering Women’s Wings of Disability Organizations

The Acknac Hotel in East Legon, Ghana, hosted a successful three-day training program on gender mainstreaming from September 27 to September 29, 2023. The Ghana Federation of Disability Organisations (GFD) organised the program, which was designed especially for the female wings of three organisations for people with disabilities (OPD). The program sought to give participants the skills and information needed to address gender-related issues in their projects and organisations. Participants took part in several incisive conversations, interactive activities, and team-building exercises over three days, establishing this program as a key step toward advancing gender equality and inclusivity.

The first day of the training program set the stage for a comprehensive exploration of gender mainstreaming. Participants delved into gender awareness, perceptions, and knowledge, gaining a deep appreciation for the intricacies of gender-related issues. Engaging discussions provided a platform for participants to share their perspectives and experiences, fostering an understanding of the subject matter. This day also featured sessions on sex, gender, and sexuality, emphasizing the importance of distinguishing between these concepts when designing inclusive and gender-responsive projects.

A highlight of Day 1 was a hands-on exercise in body mapping and understanding the concept of gender. This activity encouraged participants to examine their own perceptions of gender and consider how these perceptions may vary among individuals. The results of this exercise were both eye-opening and thought-provoking, offering valuable insights into the diversity of gender perspectives within the group.

The second day of the training program delved into gender roles and responsibilities, highlighting the importance of recognizing and addressing these dynamics within OPDs. Participants gained a deeper understanding of the intersection of gender and disability, acknowledging the unique challenges faced by women with disabilities.

Additionally, the day featured a stimulating game on gender models, providing participants with a practical and interactive way to apply their newfound knowledge. This hands-on approach allowed for the exploration of various gender models and their relevance in different contexts.

The third and final day of the training program expanded upon the foundation laid in the previous two days. The topics covered included an exercise on barrier analysis of gender mainstreaming, which enabled participants to identify and address obstacles to gender equality in their respective organizations and projects. Additionally, the day delved into gender mainstreaming strategies and tools, equipping participants with practical skills to implement gender-responsive practices. The session concluded with a discussion of best practices in organizational gender mainstreaming efforts, offering valuable insights and inspiration for participants to take back to their respective organizations.

The Ghana Federation of Disability Organizations, in partnership with the Disability Rights Fund (DRF), is committed to promoting gender equality and inclusivity. The three-day gender mainstreaming training program served as a step toward achieving these goals. By empowering the women’s wings of disability organizations with knowledge, skills, and a collaborative network, the GFD is paving the way for more inclusive and equitable programs and projects that benefit individuals with disabilities and society as a whole. The success of this training program underscores the importance of ongoing efforts to advance gender mainstreaming and disability rights in Ghana.