Report By: Ishmael Barfi
Accra, Ghana— The Executive Director of the Jamila Trust for International Development, Kobla Asamani, has reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to empowering women and strengthening communities through collaboration, mentorship, and the celebration of female achievement.
Speaking at the 2nd Jamila International Women’s Forum organised by the Trust, Mr. Asamani said the event was designed to bring together accomplished women from diverse sectors to share experiences, inspire others, and strengthen collective efforts toward advancing women’s empowerment.
According to him, the gathering served as a platform for knowledge sharing, peer learning, and networking among women leaders and stakeholders committed to promoting gender equality and social development.

“Our objective was to bring to prominence the increasing voices of women who are driving change locally, nationally, and internationally,” he said.
He explained that the event sought not only to celebrate the achievements of women but also to assess progress made in women’s empowerment and create stronger partnerships among institutions and individuals working in the sector.
“We wanted to celebrate women, evaluate how far women’s empowerment has come, and build stronger alliances among stakeholders so that together we can advance a common agenda for women and community development,” he noted.

Encouraging Young Women
Mr. Asamani urged young women to take advantage of opportunities available to them and remain focused on personal growth and leadership development.
He encouraged them to approach life with confidence, resilience, and determination, emphasizing that success often requires courage and persistence.
“Young women should know that many of the structures and opportunities needed for their development are already in place. What is important is for them to position themselves strategically, work hard, remain resilient, and persevere,” he said.
He further encouraged young women to embrace challenges and learn from setbacks rather than allowing fear to limit their ambitions.
“Nothing comes on a silver platter. They should be confident, willing to take risks, make mistakes, learn lessons, and overcome barriers,” he added.

Commitment to Women’s Empowerment
Mr. Isamani also paid tribute to the Founder and Executive Chair of Jamila Trust for International Development, **Abu Zein**, for his unwavering commitment to women’s empowerment.
Acccording to him, Ambassador Abu Zein funded the event as part of his long-standing commitment to creating opportunities for women and promoting inclusive development.
He noted that women make up approximately 70 percent of the workforce across many of Ambassador Abu Zein’s businesses, reflecting his belief in the important role women play in economic growth, family development, and community transformation.
“He strongly believes that women should be empowered and given opportunities to excel and contribute meaningfully to society,” Mr. Isamani said.
Building Stronger Communities
Jamila Trust for International Development says empowering women remains central to its mission of enhancing communities and promoting sustainable development.
The organisation hopes that partnerships forged through the forum will help strengthen advocacy efforts, expand opportunities for women, and contribute to building more inclusive and resilient communities across Ghana and beyond.
Meanwhile awards were given to women who have made great impact in the lives of people and society.
Gracing the forum was Prof. Rising Ichabodia Kyetematen, Dean of Students Affairs, University of Ghana, Ms. Rita Lordina Mills-Kpormegbe,Manager for AbsaBank, Spintex branch, Dr. Felicity Safoa Odame, President, Alliance for African Women Initiative, Mrs. Levinia Addae-Mensah,Executive Director, West Africa Network for Peacebuilding, Mrs. Patience Baffoe-Bonnie (Esq). Director-General Ghana Prisons Service
The rest are CFO Daniella Mawusi Ntoe Sarpong, Director-General Ghana National Fire Service, Whenever Gifty Dansoa Anti,Mpuntuhemaa of Ekumfi Nanaben, Media Personality and Women’s Rights Advocate, Dr. Nana Adwoa Konadu Dsane, Acting Director- Human Resource & Deputy Director, Research, University of Ghans Medical Centre & Founder, Thyroid Ghana Foundation, Ltd. Col. Jacqueline Delali Galley, Commanding Officer, Ghana Military Police, Mama Dzidoasi 1 (Esq), Sub-Divisional Queen,Gbi Traditional Area, Hohoe,Volta Region.
Source: www.thenewindependentonline.com
