GENCED Pushes Inclusive Politics, Campaign Finance Reform to Empower Women and Youth

Story by Fada Amakye

The Gender Centre for Empowering Development (GENCED) has intensified its advocacy for inclusive political participation and campaign finance reforms, urging stakeholders to dismantle barriers that keep women and young people out of leadership.

At a stakeholder forum that brought together civil society actors, women leaders, and youth representatives, GENCED Chief Executive Officer Mrs. Esther Twaiah said inclusive governance remains key to strengthening Ghana’s democratic institutions.

“Despite progress made over the years, women and youth continue to face barriers that limit their full participation in political processes,” she said. Mrs. Twaiah reaffirmed GENCED’s commitment to promoting democratic inclusion through research, capacity-building programmes, leadership training, and community engagement that equip citizens with knowledge and confidence to contribute to national development.

The event highlighted the need for reforms in political financing to create a level playing field for aspiring leaders. Participants noted that financial constraints remain one of the biggest obstacles for women and youth entering electoral politics.

Hon. Abigail Elorm Akwambia, Deputy National Women’s Organizer of the NDC and CEO of the Microfinance and Small Loans Centre, called on public servants and community leaders to uphold transparency and accountability.

She cautioned against the politicization of public service and urged citizens to reject corruption in all forms. “Hon. Akwambia further encouraged voters to make informed choices based on competence, integrity, and development-oriented policies rather than monetary incentives offered during elections,” she said.

She stressed that vote-buying undermines democracy and “often results in the election of leaders who prioritize personal interests over national development.”

Participants reiterated the need for sustained civic education, stronger democratic institutions, and policies that encourage greater participation of women and youth in governance. They expressed optimism that reforms in political financing and increased public awareness would help deepen democracy and promote inclusive national development.

The programme forms part of GENCED’s broader efforts to foster citizen engagement, strengthen democratic accountability, and create opportunities for marginalized groups to have their voices heard in decision-making processes across the country.