The Women with Disability Development and Advocacy Organisation (WODAO) has reaffirmed its commitment to empowering women with disabilities to actively participate in civil society and governance.
Veronica Adenyo Kofiedu, Executive Director of WODAO, said the organisation’s goal is to ensure that women with disabilities are not only included in civil society but are also equipped to influence its direction.
She made the remarks during the closure and evaluation workshop for the EU-funded project, “Strengthening Civil Society Representation of Women with Disabilities in Ghana.”
“Our long-term vision remains clear: women with disabilities must not just be present—they must shape civil society,” Madam Kofiedu said.
Empowering women through leadership and advocacy
The project, which benefitted about 50 women, focused on strengthening leadership identity, enhancing advocacy skills rooted in lived experiences, building confidence, amplifying voices, and increasing the representation of women with disabilities in decision-making spaces.
Madam Kofiedu highlighted the tangible impact: “Some of our mentees are now ready to lead advocacy initiatives, engage policymakers, mentor others, influence institutions, and represent women with disabilities at higher platforms. That is the true success of this programme.”
She described the closure of the project as a celebration of growth, resilience, courage, and transformation for the participants.
Acknowledging mentors and partners
Madam Kofiedu expressed gratitude to the mentors for their dedication and investment in nurturing the participants.
“To our mentors, you did not just teach—you shared your time, experience, networks, and patience. Mentorship requires commitment, and we deeply appreciate your dedication,” she said.
“To our mentees, you showed courage. Growth requires vulnerability. You reflected, received feedback, stepped out of your comfort zones, and applied your learning in real communities,” she added.
She also thanked project partners, Sightsavers and ABAK Foundation, for supporting WODAO’s vision, and government stakeholders for reinforcing the idea that inclusion is a collective responsibility.
“To our partners, thank you for believing in WODAO’s mission. To our government stakeholders, your presence reinforces that inclusion is a shared responsibility,” she concluded.