CEGENSA - Centre for Gender Studies and Advocacy https://www.cegensa.ug.edu.gh/index.php/ en Advancing Equity in Malaria Response: Gender-Responsive Strategies in Challenging Times https://www.cegensa.ug.edu.gh/index.php/advancing-equity-malaria-response-gender-responsive-strategies-challenging-times <span>Advancing Equity in Malaria Response: Gender-Responsive Strategies in Challenging Times</span> <div class="field field--name-field-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <div class="item-image"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/2025-10/Audience-2.png" alt="Virtual audience" /> </div> </div> <span><span>admin</span></span> <span>Fri, 10/03/2025 - 15:02</span> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p class="text-align-justify MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">In a conversation hosted by</span><em><i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal;"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN"> </span></i></em><a href="https://cegensa.ug.edu.gh/gmgcop"><span style="color:#0563C1;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">The Global Malaria and Gender Community of Practice</span><em><i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal;"><span style="color:#0563C1;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">,</span></i></em></a><em><i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal;"><span style="color:#0563C1;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN"> </span></i></em><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">over 70 malaria experts from around the world came together to discuss gender-sensitive malaria interventions for high-risk and marginalized populations, including children, adolescents, pregnant women, and occupationally vulnerable groups, such as mine workers and fishermen. The discussion occurred at a moment when funding constraints and shrinking political space for gender advocacy are affecting the gender-focused malaria workforce – particularly women in technical malaria roles, such as vector control and gender specialists. </span></p><p></p><p class="text-align-justify MsoNormal" style="background:white;border:none;line-height:normal;margin-bottom:15.0pt;mso-border-shadow:yes;mso-padding-alt:31.0pt 31.0pt 31.0pt 31.0pt;"><span style="color:black;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-color-alt:windowtext;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">Against that backdrop, the Community of Practice, or CoP, seeks to collaborate with relevant stakeholders and partners to promote the integration of gender into malaria work. The virtual panel discussion, “</span><em><i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal;"><span style="color:black;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-color-alt:windowtext;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">Navigating the Impacts of Funding Cuts and DEI Pushbacks on Malaria and Gender Response,” </span></i></em><span style="color:black;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-color-alt:windowtext;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">was moderated by</span><span style="color:#414042;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN"> </span><a href="https://cegensa.ug.edu.gh/dr-aminatou-kone"><span style="color:#0563C1;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-color-alt:windowtext;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">Professor Aminatou Kone</span></a><span style="color:#414042;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">, </span><span style="color:black;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-color-alt:windowtext;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">Associate Professor in Molecular Biology at the University of Sciences, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako</span><span style="color:#414042;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">. </span><span style="color:black;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">The panel consisted of </span><a href="https://ugedugh-my.sharepoint.com/:w:/g/personal/cegensa-pagip_ug_edu_gh/EdQ0LgEBiOJEuoPMEbVIQncBgp7L88AhS81PEJSdDOVwsg?e=4M08m5"><span style="color:#0563C1;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-color-alt:windowtext;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">Dr. Jonathan</span></a><span style="color:#0563C1;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN"><u> Kayondo</u></span><span style="color:black;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">, </span><a href="https://ugedugh-my.sharepoint.com/:w:/g/personal/cegensa-pagip_ug_edu_gh/ESUoEnEONWhFipQjXPGLelsB0ZgoOXbLrGv3uYiXsBhTGA?e=bW0esp"><span style="color:#0563C1;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-color-alt:windowtext;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">Maimouna</span></a><span style="color:#0563C1;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN"><u> Lehman Mohama</u></span><span style="color:black;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">, </span><a href="https://ugedugh-my.sharepoint.com/:w:/g/personal/cegensa-pagip_ug_edu_gh/ETwG79HqrfpEvHIIvn1h3OYBcecHu3TocDBuRtIgB01Ydw?e=aopdJr"><span style="color:#0563C1;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-color-alt:windowtext;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">Dr. Corine Karema</span></a><span style="color:black;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">, and </span><a href="https://ugedugh-my.sharepoint.com/:w:/g/personal/cegensa-pagip_ug_edu_gh/EcodjpCRglNChvsn9EUKWI8B0xef6Kaoe-M8dxAXQSEjdA?e=qclMgU"><span style="color:#0563C1;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-color-alt:windowtext;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">Elizabeth</span></a><span style="color:#0563C1;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN"><u> Arlotti-Parish</u></span><span style="color:black;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">, who each provided insights on the funding crisis and its gendered implications for diversity, equity and inclusion in the fight against malaria.</span></p><p></p><p class="text-align-justify MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal;"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN"><strong>Malaria funding in crisis</strong></span></b></p><img src="/sites/default/files/articles/Professor%20Deborah%20Atobrah%2C%203rd%20CoP.png" data-entity-uuid="4bc3c31c-64b6-407b-aeae-b4ce17ce2f25" data-entity-type="file" alt="" width="800" height="450" loading="lazy" /><p class="text-align-justify MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">In her introductory remarks,</span><a href="https://cegensa.ug.edu.gh/prof-deborah-atobrah"><span style="color:#0563C1;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">Professor Deborah Atobrah</span></a><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">,</span><span style="color:#414042;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN"> </span><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">Director of the </span><a href="https://cegensa.ug.edu.gh/"><span style="color:#0563C1;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">Centre for Gender Studies and Advocacy</span></a><span style="color:#0563C1;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN"><u> at the University of Ghana </u></span><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">highlighted the urgent need for equity-focused action to bridge gaps in malaria prevention and care. She outlined some disturbing gaps in coverage: 41% of pregnant women do not sleep under insecticide-treated nets (ITNs); 35% of children do not seek care from a formal health facility; 36% of children who do seek care are not tested for malaria; and 56% of pregnant women have not received a third dose of intermittent preventive treatment in pregnancy (IPTp). These gaps are compounded by a</span><a href="https://worldmalariareport2024.org/current-state"><span style="color:#0563C1;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;text-decoration:none;text-underline:none;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN"> </span><span style="color:#0563C1;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">$4.3 billion funding shortfall in 2023,</span></a><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN"> leaving over half of the at-risk population without adequate protection. This shortfall is causing inequities </span><a href="https://worldmalariareport2024.org/current-state"><span style="color:#0563C1;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">in prevention and treatment, particularly for women and girls and children under five.</span></a></p><p></p><p class="text-align-justify MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">The consequences of these cuts are being felt across multiple continents and countries. </span><a href="https://ugedugh-my.sharepoint.com/:w:/g/personal/cegensa-pagip_ug_edu_gh/ETwG79HqrfpEvHIIvn1h3OYBcecHu3TocDBuRtIgB01Ydw?e=aopdJr"><span style="color:#0563C1;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">Dr. Corine Karema</span></a><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN"> described how budget cuts have </span><a href="https://www.unicef.org/eap/press-releases/aid-cuts-threaten-fragile-progress-ending-maternal-deaths-un-agencies-warn#:~:text=These%20cuts%20have%20led%20to,deaths%20are%20already%20alarmingly%20high."><span style="color:#1155CC;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">reduced access to preventive treatments and increased transmission rates for pregnant</span></a><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN"> women. Nigeria experienced a decline in Intermittent Preventive Treatment (IPTp) coverage, while Uganda recorded a 12% drop in rural teenagers' malaria services.</span></p><p></p><p></p><img src="/sites/default/files/articles/Corine%20Karema.png" data-entity-uuid="9e240038-9e49-43b2-a05d-1ef20af015e9" data-entity-type="file" alt="" width="800" height="453" loading="lazy" /><p class="text-align-justify MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;mso-spacerun:yes;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN"> </span><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">In Zambia, the national malaria programme partners with mining companies and the government to carry out indoor spraying and screening campaigns. In Sierra Leone and Nigeria, the funding cuts have undermined the work of more than 90% of community-based health professionals responsible for malaria detection, diagnosis, and treatment. </span></p><p></p><img src="/sites/default/files/articles/Aminatou%20Kone.png" data-entity-uuid="26fd572d-77ff-4d85-b45d-a60ba353be5e" data-entity-type="file" alt="" width="800" height="453" loading="lazy" /><p class="text-align-justify MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;"><a href="https://ugedugh-my.sharepoint.com/:w:/g/personal/cegensa-pagip_ug_edu_gh/ESUoEnEONWhFipQjXPGLelsB0ZgoOXbLrGv3uYiXsBhTGA?e=bW0esp"><span style="color:#0563C1;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">Maimouna</span></a><span style="color:#0563C1;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN"><u> Lehman Mohama</u></span><span style="color:black;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN"> </span><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">added</span><span style="color:black;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN"> that reduced budgets and political resistance have also slowed progress in integrating gender in malaria </span><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">programmes,</span><span style="color:black;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN"> particularly for vulnerable groups like teenagers and women. </span><a href="https://www.clintonhealthaccess.org/case-study/introducing-the-malaria-matchbox-tool-in-benin-burkina-faso-and-drc/"><span style="color:#1155CC;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">The Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI)</span></a><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">,</span><span style="color:black;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN"> as she noted</span><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">,</span><span style="color:black;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN"> has worked to </span><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">analyse</span><span style="color:black;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN"> inequality, but budget cuts have </span><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">prioritised</span><span style="color:black;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN"> data-based strategies over </span><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">behaviour-changing</span><span style="color:black;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN"> activities. This has resulted in less effective interventions for vulnerable populations who often face cultural and socio-economic barriers in accessing care. </span></p><p></p><p class="text-align-justify MsoNormal" style="background:white;border:none;line-height:normal;margin-bottom:15.0pt;mso-border-shadow:yes;mso-padding-alt:31.0pt 31.0pt 31.0pt 31.0pt;"><a href="https://ugedugh-my.sharepoint.com/:w:/g/personal/cegensa-pagip_ug_edu_gh/EcodjpCRglNChvsn9EUKWI8B0xef6Kaoe-M8dxAXQSEjdA?e=qclMgU"><span style="color:#0563C1;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-color-alt:windowtext;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">Elizabeth Arlotti-Parish</span></a><span style="color:black;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN"> warned of the risk of losing passionate and skilled gender specialists. These experts are crucial for gender integration and gender-sensitive programming. Due to reduced funding and a shift towards life-saving interventions, these experts are being cut from malaria programmes, posing a double risk. </span></p><p></p><img src="/sites/default/files/articles/Elizabeth%20Arlotti-Parish.png" data-entity-uuid="f0af34d8-a0e0-41de-928d-845ab0dd5a9c" data-entity-type="file" alt="" width="800" height="605" loading="lazy" /><p class="text-align-justify MsoNormal" style="background:white;border:none;line-height:normal;margin-bottom:15.0pt;mso-border-shadow:yes;mso-padding-alt:31.0pt 31.0pt 31.0pt 31.0pt;"><span style="color:black;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-color-alt:windowtext;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">Ms. </span><span style="color:#0563C1;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN"><u>Arlotti-Parish</u></span><span style="color:black;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN"> suggested that programme leaders should value and utilise the broader skills of gender specialists, including management, data collection, analysis, business development, and technical writing, to preserve gender specialists and maintain diversity in malaria combat.</span></p><p></p><p class="text-align-justify MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal;"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN"><strong>Innovative funding models offer hope</strong></span></b></p><p class="text-align-justify MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">Despite these challenges, speakers suggested interventions to support malaria treatment and address health disparities. </span><a href="https://ugedugh-my.sharepoint.com/:w:/g/personal/cegensa-pagip_ug_edu_gh/ESUoEnEONWhFipQjXPGLelsB0ZgoOXbLrGv3uYiXsBhTGA?e=bW0esp"><span style="color:#0563C1;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">Maimouna</span></a><span style="color:#0563C1;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN"><u> Lehman Mohama</u></span><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN"> highlighted </span><a href="https://www.clintonhealthaccess.org/our-programs/innovation/"><span style="color:#0563C1;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">innovative approaches</span></a><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN"> to support local initiatives and community solutions in the fight against malaria. These include conditional and catalytic funding, impact investments, and public-private partnerships. Economic development funds focus on women's autonomy and gender-based violence, while community disease insurance and regional funding improve healthcare accessibility. She encouraged governments to plan their budgets to reduce inequalities in the fight against malaria.</span></p><img src="/sites/default/files/articles/Jonathan%20Kayondo.png" data-entity-uuid="56fcf9a9-b825-4532-a062-3562806bffeb" data-entity-type="file" alt="" width="800" height="457" loading="lazy" /><p class="text-align-justify MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;margin-bottom:0in;"><a href="https://ugedugh-my.sharepoint.com/:w:/g/personal/cegensa-pagip_ug_edu_gh/EdQ0LgEBiOJEuoPMEbVIQncBgp7L88AhS81PEJSdDOVwsg?e=4M08m5"><span style="color:#0563C1;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">Dr. Jonathan</span></a><span style="color:#0563C1;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN"><u> Kayondo</u></span><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN"> emphasised the importance of diversifying the sources of </span><a href="https://www.fundsforngos.org/proposals/reducing-malaria-incidence-through-community-health-interventions/#:~:text=Investigate%20potential%20funding%20sources%20such%20as%20grants%2C,malaria%20control%20efforts%20beyond%20the%20project%20duration."><span style="color:#0563C1;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">local funding for research</span></a><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">. He noted that, in the short term, collaborations with corporations and organisations can provide targeted support, while in the long term, organisations can engage local benefactors, humanitarian organisations, and wealthy members' clubs like </span><a href="https://www.rotary.org/en"><span style="color:#0563C1;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">Rotary</span></a><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN"> and </span><a href="https://www.lionsclubs.org/en"><span style="color:#0563C1;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">Lions</span></a><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN"> Club. Strengthening research partnerships, expanding support offices, fostering cross-disciplinary collaborations, and tapping into government schemes can also help bridge funding gaps.</span></p><p></p><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal;"><span style="color:black;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;mso-spacerun:yes;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN"><strong> </strong></span></b><p class="text-align-justify MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;margin-bottom:0in;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal;"><span style="color:black;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN"><strong>Women at the forefront of malaria management</strong></span></b></p><p></p><p class="text-align-justify MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;margin-bottom:0in;"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">The discussion highlighted the need for gender-disaggregated data in malaria programmes and health services. </span><a href="https://ugedugh-my.sharepoint.com/:w:/g/personal/cegensa-pagip_ug_edu_gh/EcodjpCRglNChvsn9EUKWI8B0xef6Kaoe-M8dxAXQSEjdA?e=qclMgU"><span style="color:#1155CC;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">Elizabeth Arlotti-Parish</span></a><span style="color:#0563C1;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN"> </span><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">pointed out that disaggregated data by gender and age is important as it helps differentiate beneficiaries of malaria health programs, but numbers alone does not capture barriers like financial constraints or women’s underrepresentation in training. Addressing these gaps is essential for equity and more gender-responsive health policies.</span></p><p></p><p class="text-align-justify MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;"><a href="https://ugedugh-my.sharepoint.com/:w:/g/personal/cegensa-pagip_ug_edu_gh/EdQ0LgEBiOJEuoPMEbVIQncBgp7L88AhS81PEJSdDOVwsg?e=4M08m5"><span style="color:#0563C1;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">Dr. Jonathan Kayondo</span></a><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN"> reinforced this view that </span><a href="https://targetmalaria.org/virtual-press-room/press-releases/the-transformative-impact-of-women-in-the-fight-against-malaria/"><span style="color:#0563C1;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">women play a crucial role in caring for their children, who are among the most vulnerable to malaria.</span></a><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN"> He argued that women must be at the forefront of the fight against the disease, and that funders should prioritise </span><a href="https://www.womenlifthealth.org/article/the-malaria-fight-must-not-be-gender-blind/"><span style="color:#0563C1;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">gender integration</span></a><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN"> to strengthen both family health and broader malaria control efforts. </span></p><p></p><p class="text-align-justify MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;"><a href="https://cegensa.ug.edu.gh/dr-aminatou-kone"><span style="color:#0563C1;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">Prof Aminatou Kone</span></a><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN"> concluded the discussion by summarising all the key points raised by the panelists. </span></p><p></p><p class="text-align-justify MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;"><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">In wrapping up the session, </span><a href="https://cegensa.ug.edu.gh/prof-deborah-atobrah"><span style="color:#1155CC;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">Professor Deborah Atobrah</span></a><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">, of the </span><a href="https://cegensa.ug.edu.gh/"><span style="color:#0563C1;font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN">Centre for Gender Studies and Advocacy,</span></a><span style="font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif;font-size:12.0pt;mso-fareast-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" xml:lang="EN"> who convened the CoP, thanked all the participants and invited all partners in gender and malaria work to share relevant resources with the community to synchronise work on the gender and malaria intersection. She announced that the next meeting will be held in November, with the exact date to be communicated.</span></p><p></p><p class="text-align-center MsoNormal" style="line-height:normal;"></p><p></p></div> <span class="post-categories" ><a href="/index.php/taxonomy/term/27" hreflang="en">CoP Activities</a></span> <span class="post-categories" ><a href="/index.php/taxonomy/term/2" hreflang="en">News</a></span> <div class="field field--name-field-post-format field--type-list-string field--label-hidden field__item">Standard (Image)</div> Fri, 03 Oct 2025 13:02:25 +0000 admin 213 at https://www.cegensa.ug.edu.gh https://www.cegensa.ug.edu.gh/index.php/advancing-equity-malaria-response-gender-responsive-strategies-challenging-times#comments One Year After Affirmative Action Act: CEGENSA Hosts National Dialogue to Spur Implementation https://www.cegensa.ug.edu.gh/index.php/one-year-after-affirmative-action-act-cegensa-hosts-national-dialogue-spur-implementation <span>One Year After Affirmative Action Act: CEGENSA Hosts National Dialogue to Spur Implementation</span> <div class="field field--name-field-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <div class="item-image"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/2025-08/Group%20Photo%20-%20cover.jpg" alt="Group photo - CEGENSA Hosts National Dialogue to Spur Implementation" /> </div> </div> <span><span>admin</span></span> <span>Mon, 08/11/2025 - 17:23</span> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>A year after the historic passage of Ghana’s Affirmative Action (Gender Equity) Act, stakeholders from government, academia, civil society, and the legal sector gathered at the University of Ghana to reflect on its impact, highlight implementation challenges, and renew their collective commitment to gender equity.<br />Organised by the Centre for Gender Studies and Advocacy (CEGENSA), in collaboration with the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection (MoGCSP), NETRIGHT Ghana, and the African Women’s Development Fund (AWDF), the high-level policy dialogue formed part of commemorations for Pan-African Women’s Day. The event convened over 300 participants under the theme: <em><strong>“The Affirmative Action Act 2024: Implementation, Progress, and Challenges.”</strong></em></p><p><strong>A Law Anchored in Democratic Rights</strong></p><img src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Professor%20Nana%20Aba%20Appiah%20Amfo.jpg" data-entity-uuid="71ad5cc2-3025-44a6-8f27-73a13973f02e" data-entity-type="file" alt="Professor Nana Aba Appiah Amfo" class="align-center" width="602" height="475" loading="lazy" /><p>Chairing the event, <strong>Professor Nana Aba Appiah Amfo,</strong> Vice Chancellor of the University of Ghana, emphasized that the Affirmative Action Act must be viewed not as a concession to women, but as a democratic obligation. She described it as foundational to inclusive governance and sustainable national development.<br />Delivering remarks on behalf of the Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Ms. Anastasia Asare, the Ministry’s Programmes Director, highlighted the essential role academia and civil society must continue to play in raising public awareness and sustaining momentum. She affirmed the Ministry’s readiness to partner with institutions like CEGENSA to ensure the law translates into real change.</p><p><strong>Reflections from the Frontlines of Advocacy</strong></p><p>Speaking at the event, <strong>Professor Deborah Atobrah</strong>, Director of CEGENSA, called for critical reflection on the implementation journey one year on. She underscored that the Act is more than a policy win, it is a constitutional safeguard of equality.<br /> </p><img src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Professor%20Deborah%20Atobrah.jpg" data-entity-uuid="bebe6bde-dbf6-4bce-8517-5c218deff59d" data-entity-type="file" alt="Professor Deborah Atobrah" class="align-center" width="602" height="465" loading="lazy" /><p>“This Act is not just a legislative win. It is a constitutional imperative to protect the rights of all citizens. One year later, we must ask, what has changed, and for whom?” she said.<br />Legal practitioner and Coordinator of the Affirmative Action Bill Coalition, <strong>Becky Ahadzi </strong>(Esq.), raised concerns about the law's lack of specific enforcement mechanisms, warning that this could open the door to institutional evasion.<br />She urged collective national effort to meet the 30% minimum target for women’s representation in decision-making by 2026, warning that existing political weaknesses may undermine compliance, especially in the private sector.<br /><strong>Ms. Victoria Nyavor,</strong> Programmes Officer at MoGCSP, also emphasized that while the Act’s passage was a milestone, tangible implementation remains limited. She pointed out that provisions such as establishing Affirmative Action Units in ministries and conducting gender parity audits have yet to be scaled nationally.<br />"We need to develop and implement policies that promote gender equity and hold stakeholders accountable for progress. The need to continuously track and address gender gaps in various sectors cannot be overstated," she noted.</p><p><strong>What the Act Requires</strong></p><ul><li>The Affirmative Action (Gender Equity) Act mandates:</li><li>A minimum 30% representation of women in all public decision-making bodies</li><li>Institutional reforms in political parties, local governance, and public recruitment</li><li>Structures to monitor and evaluate gender balance in appointments and promotions</li><li>Sanctions for public institutions that fail to comply</li></ul><p><strong>A Road Still Under Construction</strong></p><img src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Panelist.jpg" data-entity-uuid="a64a5283-67d4-4b85-94fc-a397febad598" data-entity-type="file" alt="panelists" class="align-center" width="602" height="401" loading="lazy" /><p>The dialogue also served as a platform to examine national and local-level implementation gaps, identify institutional bottlenecks, and propose concrete policy solutions. Distinguished speakers included:<br />●    Prof. Akosua K. Darkwah, Convenor of NETRIGHT<br />●    Ms. Susan Aryeetey, Executive Director, FIDA<br />●    Dr. Clara Kasser Tee, Head, Kasser Law Firm<br />●    Mr. Dennis Nii Okai Armah, Legal Practitioner<br />“Policy without implementation is not progress; it is the postponement of justice,” said Ms. Aryeetey. “The promise of this Act must be felt in every district, every boardroom, every state agency and every legislative body”</p><p><strong>About CEGENSA</strong><br />The <strong>Centre for Gender Studies and Advocacy (CEGENSA)</strong> at the University of Ghana is a pioneer in advancing gender equality in Ghana and across Africa. Through research, advocacy, capacity strengthening, and leadership development, CEGENSA works to shape a future where equity is not only a goal but a lived reality.</p><p><strong>Media Contact</strong></p><p>Rosemary Balami<br />Communications &amp; Partnerships Officer<br /><a href="mailto:cegensa-communications@ug.edu.gh">cegensa-communications@ug.edu.gh</a><br />+233 209 205 816<br /> </p><p><br /> </p><p> </p></div> <span class="post-categories" ><a href="/index.php/taxonomy/term/2" hreflang="en">News</a></span> <div class="field field--name-field-post-format field--type-list-string field--label-hidden field__item">Standard (Image)</div> Mon, 11 Aug 2025 15:23:02 +0000 admin 211 at https://www.cegensa.ug.edu.gh https://www.cegensa.ug.edu.gh/index.php/one-year-after-affirmative-action-act-cegensa-hosts-national-dialogue-spur-implementation#comments CEGENSA Deepens Global Gender Equity Ties Through Exchange Visit to University of Sussex https://www.cegensa.ug.edu.gh/index.php/cegensa-deepens-global-gender-equity-ties-through-exchange-visit-university-sussex <span>CEGENSA Deepens Global Gender Equity Ties Through Exchange Visit to University of Sussex</span> <div class="field field--name-field-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <div class="item-image"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/2025-09/University%20of%20Sussex.jpg" alt="group photo - Exchange visit at the University of Sussex" /> </div> </div> <span><span>admin</span></span> <span>Tue, 08/05/2025 - 08:08</span> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>The Centre for Gender Studies and Advocacy (CEGENSA) at the University of Ghana has completed a landmark academic exchange trip to the University of Sussex, UK, as part of the Cross-Institutional Reciprocal Mentoring Scheme. The week-long visit, held from July 7–10, 2025, was designed to strengthen partnerships, promote institutional learning, and enhance gender equity and inclusion across higher education.<br />Led by Professor Deborah Atobrah, Director of CEGENSA, the three-member delegation engaged in a series of high-level dialogues, strategic meetings, mentoring sessions, and collaborative planning events with key figures from across the University of Sussex. The initiative forms part of CEGENSA’s broader agenda to promote inclusive leadership, equity in academia, and south-north knowledge exchange.</p><p><strong>Orientation and Campus Tour</strong><br /> </p><img src="/sites/default/files/articles/Exchange%20Visit%202.jpg" data-entity-uuid="6d597c65-599f-4795-81a8-560c0c11fc09" data-entity-type="file" alt="" width="602" height="601" class="align-center" loading="lazy" /><p>The visit began with an immersive orientation and campus tour led by Professor Sarah Guthrie, Professor of Developmental Neuroscience. Highlights included stops at the Attenborough Centre for the Creative Arts, Student Centre, Eat Central, and the Interdenominational Church, offering the CEGENSA team a first-hand view of Sussex's inclusive and interdisciplinary learning spaces.</p><p><strong>Strategic Stakeholder Engagement</strong><br />At a stakeholder lunch held at Sussex House, the CEGENSA team engaged with top university officials, including Professor David Ruebain (Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Culture, Equality and Inclusion), Mr. Colin Shipp (Executive Director of HR), and Sarah Law (EDI Consultant). Discussions focused on shared institutional experiences and best practices in advancing Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI), particularly in leadership representation, policy accountability, and intersectional equity.<br />Sussex shared its strategy of embedding EDI in governance structures, including conducting equality impact analyses and aiming for gender parity among executive deans. Meanwhile, CEGENSA highlighted UG's recent gender leadership milestones, including the appointments of the university's first female Vice Chancellor, Registrar, Chancellor, and Council Chair.</p><p><strong>Roundtable on Gender and Academia</strong></p><img src="/sites/default/files/articles/Group%20photo%20-%20Exchange%20Visit%201.jpg" data-entity-uuid="aad84ab1-794d-4a31-aaeb-020db789dfe8" data-entity-type="file" alt="" width="602" height="451" class="align-center" loading="lazy" /><p>A cross-institutional roundtable brought together female academics from Sussex and Ghana to share experiences on navigating gendered barriers in academia. CEGENSA shared UG’s successful model of integrating gender education into the undergraduate curriculum, reaching over 70,000 students. Discussions also explored mentorship as a tool for supporting women in research and the importance of addressing caregiving burdens and access to fieldwork.</p><p><strong>Engagements with Strategic Units</strong></p><p>The CEGENSA team held meetings with multiple departments and centres, including:<br />●    The Centre for Equitable Global Health Research<br />●    The Institute of Development Studies (IDS)<br />●    The Department of Global Health and Infection<br />●    The Gender Equality Steering Group<br />At the Centre for Equitable Global Health Research, discussions focused on co-developing joint projects related to gender, equity, and infectious diseases, as well as supporting early-career researchers. At the IDS, dialogue centered on institutional communication strategies and global partnership development.<br />Professor Deborah Atobrah and Dr. Papreen Nahar also explored research collaboration on reproductive health, antimicrobial resistance, and gender-based violence, with plans to exchange teaching materials and co-develop academic modules in global health.</p><p><strong>Mentoring Walk and Final Reflections</strong></p><p>The visit concluded with a mentoring activity walk through Sussex’s scenic Stanmer Park and a reflective lunch to foster interpersonal bonds. The CEGENSA team also participated in a Gender Equality Steering Group meeting, which spotlighted Sussex's EDI achievements, including its Gold Athena Swan Award and Women’s Leadership Academy.</p><p><strong>Looking Ahead</strong></p><p>Plans are underway for the University of Sussex to visit Ghana in March 2026 as part of the reciprocal component of the mentoring scheme. Both institutions committed to sustained collaboration in research, policy reform, and capacity-building. Joint outputs are expected to include publications, toolkits, and digital resources to inform global conversations on gender equity in academia.<br />CEGENSA’s participation in this exchange underscores its dedication to building a more inclusive academic future—one rooted in shared learning, equity, and transformative leadership.<br /> </p></div> <span class="post-categories" ><a href="/index.php/taxonomy/term/2" hreflang="en">News</a></span> <div class="field field--name-field-post-format field--type-list-string field--label-hidden field__item">Standard (Image)</div> Tue, 05 Aug 2025 06:08:19 +0000 admin 212 at https://www.cegensa.ug.edu.gh Policy Dialogue on Affirmative Action (Gender Equity) Act 2024: Implementation, Progress and Challenges https://www.cegensa.ug.edu.gh/index.php/node/210 <span>Policy Dialogue on Affirmative Action (Gender Equity) Act 2024: Implementation, Progress and Challenges</span> <span><span>admin</span></span> <span>Fri, 07/18/2025 - 16:36</span> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>In commemorating the AU’s Pan-African Women’s Day and 1st Anniversary of the Affirmative Action (Gender Equity) Act 2024, the Centre for Gender Studies and Advocacy (CEGENSA) at the University of Ghana, is organizing a policy dialogue and roundtable discussion on the theme “The Affirmative Action Act 2024: Implementation, Progress and Challenges”.</p><p>The event is being organized in partnership with the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection and the African Women’s Development Fund (AWDF).</p><p>The Affirmative Action (Gender Equity) Act 2024 was passed in July 2024 after decades of advocacy from the women’s movement, civil society, activists and legislators. The act seeks to promote women’s participation and address gender inequality in all areas of society, including politics, economy, education, and social life.  Despite the passage of the act, there are still concerns about its implementation, as key provisions for the implementation of the Act have not been met.</p><p>The objectives of the proposed policy dialogue are to:  </p><ul><li>Evaluate the progress made so far with the implementation of the Act.</li><li>Share impact stories on the Act.</li><li>Identify gaps and challenges in the implementation of the Act.</li><li>Propose policy recommendations to enhance the implementation of the Act. </li><li>Call all key actors of the Act to requisite action.</li></ul><p>The following panellists have confirmed their participation:</p><ol><li>Prof. Akosua K. Darkwah (Convenor, NETRIGHT; Dean, School of Communications and Information) </li><li>Ms. Susan Aryeetey (Executive Director, FIDA) </li><li>Dr Clara Kasser Tee (Lecturer, UG School of Law; Founder and Head, Kasser Law Firm)</li><li>Mr. Dennis Nii Okai Armah (Legal Practitioner)</li><li>Ms. Becky E. Ahadzi (Affirmative Action Law Coordinator)</li><li>Ms. Victoria Nyavor (Programs Officer, Ministry of Gender, Children &amp; Social Protection)</li></ol><p>Chairperson: Professor Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, Vice-Chancellor, University of Ghana<br />Guest of Honor: Dr Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, Minister, Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection. </p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-event-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <div class="item-image"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/events/AA%20Policy%20Dialogue%20Official%20Dialogue.png" alt="" /> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-event-start field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2025-07-31T12:00:00Z">2025-07-31</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-event-address field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">ISSER Conference Hall, University of Ghana- Legon</div> <div class="field field--name-field-event-time field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">9:30AM (GMT)</div> Fri, 18 Jul 2025 14:36:37 +0000 admin 210 at https://www.cegensa.ug.edu.gh Prof. Esther Sakyi-Dawson https://www.cegensa.ug.edu.gh/index.php/prof-esther-sakyi-dawson <span>Prof. Esther Sakyi-Dawson</span> <span><span>admin</span></span> <span>Tue, 05/27/2025 - 15:12</span> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p class="text-align-justify MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US">Prof. Esther Sakyi-Dawson is an accomplished academic and development practitioner with extensive experience in gender, nutrition, and rural livelihoods. A former faculty member at the University of Ghana, she has spent decades contributing to research, policy advocacy, and community-based interventions that promote gender equity and sustainable development.</span><p></p></p><p class="text-align-justify MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US">Her work integrates interdisciplinary approaches to address systemic inequalities, particularly in food security, health, and women's empowerment. Prof. Sakyi-Dawson has led and participated in numerous national and international research collaborations, serving as a mentor to young scholars and a trusted advisor on gender-responsive programming.</span><p></p></p><p class="text-align-justify MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US">As a member of the Management Committee, she brings a wealth of knowledge, strategic insight, and a deep commitment to advancing gender justice through academic excellence and inclusive advocacy.</span><p></p></p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-team-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <div class="item-image"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/team/Professor%20Esther%20Sakyi-Dawson.jpg" alt="" /> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-team-name field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Prof. Esther Sakyi-Dawson</div> <div class="field field--name-field-team-position field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Member</div> Tue, 27 May 2025 13:12:19 +0000 admin 209 at https://www.cegensa.ug.edu.gh Prof. Awo Mana Asiedu https://www.cegensa.ug.edu.gh/index.php/prof-awo-mana-asiedu <span>Prof. Awo Mana Asiedu</span> <span><span>admin</span></span> <span>Tue, 05/27/2025 - 15:10</span> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p class="text-align-justify MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US">Prof. Awo Mana Asiedu is a distinguished academic and gender advocate with extensive experience in theatre, performance studies, and feminist scholarship. As a professor at the University of Ghana, she has contributed significantly to research and discourse on gender, representation, and social transformation in African societies. Her work bridges the arts and activism, using performance as a tool to address gender inequality and promote social justice.</span><p></p></p><p class="text-align-justify MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US">With a strong commitment to gender advocacy, Prof. Asiedu brings her academic rigor, creative insight, and leadership to the Centre's mission. She plays a pivotal role in shaping strategies that promote equity, inclusion, and empowerment within the university and the broader community.</span><p></p></p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-team-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <div class="item-image"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/team/Professor%20Awo%20Asiedu.jpg" alt="" /> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-team-name field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Prof. Awo Mana Asiedu</div> <div class="field field--name-field-team-position field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Member</div> Tue, 27 May 2025 13:10:06 +0000 admin 208 at https://www.cegensa.ug.edu.gh Mr. Chris Tsegah https://www.cegensa.ug.edu.gh/index.php/mr-chris-tsegah <span>Mr. Chris Tsegah</span> <span><span>admin</span></span> <span>Tue, 05/27/2025 - 14:29</span> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p class="text-align-justify MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US">Mr. Chris Tsegah is a seasoned marketing and communications professional with over 20 years of experience in brand management, market entry strategies, and campaign execution across diverse industries including telecoms, IT, auto, and electronics. Passionate about transforming businesses into strong, customer-centric brands, Chris leverages his extensive experience and cross-cultural exposure to mentor business leaders and teams through workshops and conferences.</span><p></p></p><p class="text-align-justify MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US">He has served in various strategic roles, including consultancy engagements with USAID’s Business Advocacy Challenge Fund (BUSAC), Access African People (BVI), and TT Global (South Africa). His career highlights include spearheading impactful marketing campaigns, negotiating high-value contracts, and coordinating multi-million-dollar media rights projects. He also lectures on brand building, customer experience, and team development.</span><p></p></p><p class="text-align-justify MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US">Known as a bridge builder and a challenger of the status quo, he brings a results-driven approach and a commitment to ethical leadership in every role he undertakes.</span><p></p></p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-team-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <div class="item-image"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/team/Mr.%20Chris%20Tsegah.jpg" alt="" /> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-team-name field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Mr. Chris Tsegah</div> <div class="field field--name-field-team-position field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Member</div> Tue, 27 May 2025 12:29:33 +0000 admin 207 at https://www.cegensa.ug.edu.gh CEGENSA and Gates Foundation Deepen Collaboration in Gender and Health Advocacy https://www.cegensa.ug.edu.gh/index.php/cegensa-and-gates-foundation-deepen-collaboration-gender-and-health-advocacy <span>CEGENSA and Gates Foundation Deepen Collaboration in Gender and Health Advocacy</span> <div class="field field--name-field-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <div class="item-image"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/2025-05/CEGENSA%20Group%20Photo%20-%20Meeting%20with%20The%20VC.jpg" alt="group photo - Visit to The VC" /> </div> </div> <span><span>admin</span></span> <span>Wed, 04/16/2025 - 12:36</span> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>The impact of the partnership between the Gates Foundation and the Centre for Gender Studies and Advocacy (CEGENSA), through the Gender Responsive Malaria Advocacy and Policy Project, over the last two years has been unparalleled.</p><p>At a recent courtesy call at UG, Programme Officer for Thematic Advocacy at the Gates Foundation, Fatima Riaz, expressed deep appreciation for the strong and evolving relationship with the University.</p><p>She commended the leadership of Vice-Chancellor Professor Nana Aba Appiah-Amfo and highlighted CEGENSA’s growing role in gender and health advocacy both across Africa and globally. “This is not a grant, this is a partnership that’s exclusively focused on how to strengthen CEGENSA to take a leading role on the continent and globally when it comes to gender and malaria,” said Ms. Riaz. </p><img src="/sites/default/files/articles/Programme%20Officer%20for%20Thematic%20Advocacy%20at%20the%20Gates%20Foundation%2C%20Fatima%20Riaz.jpg" data-entity-uuid="b6713532-fd59-4fde-b5ea-2c301151d9a9" data-entity-type="file" alt="" width="800" height="640" class="align-center" loading="lazy" /><p class="text-align-center"><em><strong>Programme Officer for Thematic Advocacy at the Gates Foundation, Fatima Riaz</strong></em><br /> </p><p>She added that the Foundation is actively exploring ways to ‘scale up CEGENSA’s capacity and reach across the continent.’</p><p>In her welcome remarks, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Nana Aba Appiah Amfo underscored the long-term value of the partnership and the importance of applying a gender lens to health and development challenges.</p><p> “It’s important that we look at various topics from the gender perspective because things happen to different people in different ways and we react differently. The society also sometimes reacts differently based on gender,” she said.</p><img src="/sites/default/files/articles/Vice-Chancellor%20Prof.%20Nana%20Aba%20Appiah%20Amfo%20making%20remarks%20during%20the%20meeting.jpg" data-entity-uuid="b909fdd6-3c32-4038-ac8a-26049fc677d1" data-entity-type="file" alt="" width="800" height="533" class="align-center" loading="lazy" /><p class="text-align-center"><em><strong>Vice-Chancellor Prof. Nana Aba Appiah Amfo making remarks during the meeting </strong></em></p><p>Prof. Amfo also acknowledged the capacity that has been built through the partnership and expressed confidence in the growing expertise to benefit not only Ghana but the wider African continent.</p><p>Director of CEGENSA, Prof. Deborah Atobrah, reflected on the success of the project and how it has allowed the Centre to surpass its original goals. One of CEGENSA’s most notable milestones, she added, is its contribution to the 2024 World Malaria Report, which for the first time included a chapter on gender, an achievement in global health reporting.</p><img src="/sites/default/files/articles/Director%20of%20CEGENSA%2C%20Prof.%20Deborah%20Atobrah.jpg" data-entity-uuid="6abd17ca-cd59-4e28-b0f9-362b2b89d3d0" data-entity-type="file" alt="" width="800" height="640" loading="lazy" /><p class="text-align-center"><em><strong>Director of CEGENSA, Prof. Deborah Atobrah</strong></em></p><p>Prof. Gordon Awandare, Pro Vice-Chancellor (ASA), emphasised the University’s strong track record in delivering impactful research and innovation. He referenced other successful collaborations with the Gates Foundation, such as projects on malaria surveillance and the GIISER project, which integrates genomics and immunology to improve pandemic preparedness. “We are ready for the scale-up,” he said.</p><img src="/sites/default/files/articles/Prof.%20Gordon%20Awandare%2C%20Pro%20Vice-Chancellor%20%28ASA%29.jpg" data-entity-uuid="92372300-41bd-4770-a2af-3d1e23d3457d" data-entity-type="file" alt="" width="800" height="640" loading="lazy" /><p class="text-align-center"><em><strong>Prof. Gordon Awandare, Pro Vice-Chancellor (ASA)</strong></em></p><p>On his part, Provost of the College of Humanities, Prof. Joseph Yaro, echoed appreciation for the in-person engagement and the strong partnership built over time. He pledged the continuous support of the College for the smooth running of the project.</p><p>Prof. Akosua Adomako-Ampofo, the first Director of CEGENSA and an advisory committee member of the project, expressed her delight at the growth of the Centre over the years and the support it has received from past and present members of University Management. She was hopeful that the project will further enhance CEGENSA’s profile.</p><p>Prof. Irene Kretchy, Associate Professor of Social Behavioural Pharmacy at the Department of Pharmacy Practice and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, who is also the Vice-Dean of the School of Graduate Studies and a CEGENSA Affiliate, expressed her excitement about the multi-disciplinary nature of the project. She intimated that, as a Health Scientist, the project has provided great insights into the contributions of other disciplines to the gender and health discourse.</p><img src="/sites/default/files/articles/Provost%20College%20of%20Humanities%2C%20Prof%20Yaro.jpg" data-entity-uuid="4e8e1312-becf-40ac-8b9d-2d51c7e8114f" data-entity-type="file" alt="" width="800" height="640" loading="lazy" /><p class="text-align-center"><em><strong>Provost of the College of Humanities, Prof. Joseph Yaro</strong></em></p><p>Research Fellow at CEGENSA, Dr. Abena Kyere and Dr. Benjamin Kwansa, Senior Research Fellow, Institute of African Studies, (CEGENSA Affiliate and project management member), took turns to  share the invaluable insights they have gained while working on the project.</p><p>The meeting was moderated by the Director of Public Affairs, Dr. Elizier Taiba Ameyaw-Buronyah and had in attendance staff of the Public Affairs Directorate and the Vice-Chancellor’s Office.</p><img src="/sites/default/files/articles/Research%20Fellow%20Abena%20Kyere.jpg" data-entity-uuid="1c3b7fc7-bc2f-425d-b5b3-d55fefa5d344" data-entity-type="file" alt="" height="960" class="align-center" width="800" loading="lazy" /><img src="/sites/default/files/articles/Former%20Director%2C%20Prof.%20Adomako%20Ampofo.jpg" data-entity-uuid="38bcbbf2-646a-43c1-bb1d-4980cf80d179" data-entity-type="file" alt="" height="960" class="align-center" width="800" loading="lazy" /><img src="/sites/default/files/articles/Dr.%20Kwansa%20%26%20team.jpg" data-entity-uuid="93986434-4b09-4fad-a0c2-e79e66230e83" data-entity-type="file" alt="" width="800" height="533" loading="lazy" /></div> <span class="post-categories" ><a href="/index.php/taxonomy/term/2" hreflang="en">News</a></span> <div class="field field--name-field-post-format field--type-list-string field--label-hidden field__item">Standard (Image)</div> Wed, 16 Apr 2025 10:36:23 +0000 admin 205 at https://www.cegensa.ug.edu.gh Breakfast Meeting with Female Chiefs and Principals Staff Category of the University https://www.cegensa.ug.edu.gh/index.php/breakfast-meeting-female-chiefs-and-principals-staff-category-university <span>Breakfast Meeting with Female Chiefs and Principals Staff Category of the University</span> <div class="field field--name-field-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <div class="item-image"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/2025-05/Breakfast%20Meeting%20-%20Group%20photo.jpg" alt="group photo - Breakfast Meeting with Female Chiefs and Principals staff category" /> </div> </div> <span><span>admin</span></span> <span>Tue, 04/01/2025 - 14:47</span> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>It was a perfect mix of fun, networking and knowledge sharing at a recent breakfast meeting held at the Hephzibah Christian Centre. The event, organized by the Centre for Gender Studies and Advocacy (CEGENSA), brought together female Chief and Principal staff of the University to engage with the Vice-Chancellor and the Registrar in an informal yet impactful setting, sharing insights on career growth and leadership.</p><p>The event was not all talk; it featured a walk from the Ayi Mensah tollbooth up the hill, accompanied by brass band music, aerobics, a lively dance competition and food and drinks.</p><p>Key takeaways from the panel discussion under the theme ‘‘Professionalism and Efficiency’’ moderated by the President of the UG chapter of the Senior Staff Association of Universities of Ghana (SSA-UoG), Mrs. Gladys Alantiya:</p><p>VC, Prof. Nana Aba Appiah Amfo:<br />✔ Your professional growth starts with you, own it!<br />✔ Stay updated and seize opportunities in the University.<br />✔ Take charge of your career development, don't wait for it to happen.</p><p>Registrar, Mrs. Emelia Agyei-Mensah:<br />✔ Every role matters from administration to janitorial staff, we all contribute to success.<br />✔ The university thrives on teamwork, support each other.<br />✔ Want a promotion? Consistently deliver excellence!</p><p>Senior Counsellor at the Careers and Counselling Centre, Dr. Gladys Setordzi:<br />✔ Balance is key juggling work and family is possible.<br />✔ Don’t be afraid to ask for help when needed.<br />✔ Your work should be fulfilling beyond just earning a paycheck.<br />✔ Stress and burnout? Avoid them at all costs!</p><p>The Director of CEGENSA, Prof. Deborah Atobrah, in her earlier remarks, also thanked the Vice-Chancellor for initiating the event, which is now in its third year.<br /> </p></div> <span class="post-categories" ><a href="/index.php/taxonomy/term/2" hreflang="en">News</a></span> <div class="field field--name-field-post-format field--type-list-string field--label-hidden field__item">Standard (Image)</div> <div> <div class="owl-carousel init-carousel-owl"data-items="1" data-items_lg="1" data-items_md="1" data-items_sm="1" data-items_xs="1" data-loop="1" data-speed="500" data-auto_play="1" data-auto_play_speed="2000" data-auto_play_timeout="5000" data-auto_play_hover="1" data-navigation="1" data-rewind_nav="0" data-pagination="0" data-mouse_drag="1" data-touch_drag="1"><div class="item"> <div class="item-image"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/articles/gallery/Breakfast%20Meeting%20-%201.JPG" alt="Vice Chancellor Professor Nana Aba Amfo Appiah " /> </div> </div><div class="item"> <div class="item-image"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/articles/gallery/Breakfast%20Meeting%20-%202.JPG" alt="Health walk before the breakfast meeting" /> </div> </div><div class="item"> <div class="item-image"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/articles/gallery/Breakfast%20Meeting%20-%203.JPG" alt="Group photo" /> </div> </div><div class="item"> <div class="item-image"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/articles/gallery/Breakfast%20Meeting%20-%205.JPG" alt="Panel Discussion" /> </div> </div><div class="item"> <div class="item-image"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/articles/gallery/Breakfast%20Meeting%20-%206.JPG" alt="aerobics before the meeting" /> </div> </div></div> </div> Tue, 01 Apr 2025 12:47:20 +0000 admin 206 at https://www.cegensa.ug.edu.gh CEGENSA’s Participation on the '16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV)' https://www.cegensa.ug.edu.gh/index.php/cegensas-participation-16-days-activism-against-gender-based-violence-gbv <span>CEGENSA’s Participation on the &#039;16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV)&#039;</span> <div class="field field--name-field-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <div class="item-image"> <img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/2025-01/gbv_group_photo.jpg" alt="group photo" /> </div> </div> <span><span>admin</span></span> <span>Tue, 12/17/2024 - 16:37</span> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>In commemoration of the annual global campaign dubbed '16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence (GBV),' the Centre for Gender Studies and Advocacy (CEGENSA), UG, organized a sensitization programme for students of the University, in collaboration with the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and MTN.<br />The campaign sought to educate the students about the prevalence and impact of gender-based violence, through various activities, including outreaches on campus shuttle buses and social media engagement.<br /> </p><img src="/sites/default/files/articles/gbv_photo.jpg" data-entity-uuid="0286d528-d8d8-48d6-b267-c264d5c61738" data-entity-type="file" alt="" width="1430" height="1144" loading="lazy" /><img src="/sites/default/files/articles/GBV_Staff%20of%20CEGENSA.jpg" data-entity-uuid="c41ccbdf-0aa8-4973-b351-9a06a09cdc52" data-entity-type="file" alt="" width="1430" height="1144" loading="lazy" /><p>Director of CEGENSA, Prof. Deborah Atobrah pointed out the grave consequences of gender-based violence, while also highlighting the many forms of abuse and their traumatic impact on victims.</p><img src="/sites/default/files/articles/GBV_Pascaline.jpg" data-entity-uuid="eb9cff52-7c46-487b-b823-1a1cbc9d94fd" data-entity-type="file" alt="" width="1430" height="953" class="align-center" loading="lazy" /><p class="text-align-center">Senior Assistant Registrar at the Public Affairs Directorate, Ms. Pascaline Songsore, stressed the importance of providing a safe and supportive environment for victims to report incidents of gender-based violence as well as receive the support needed.</p><p> </p></div> <span class="post-categories" ><a href="/index.php/taxonomy/term/2" hreflang="en">News</a></span> <div class="field field--name-field-post-format field--type-list-string field--label-hidden field__item">Standard (Image)</div> Tue, 17 Dec 2024 15:37:30 +0000 admin 204 at https://www.cegensa.ug.edu.gh