UE/R – Empowering Women: Odogwu Ladies of Bolgatanga Launched Their Initiative

BY: MILLICENT LAADI DAHAMANI

In a significant move towards female empowerment, the Odogwu Ladies of Bolgatanga officially launched their group in the Upper East Region of Ghana. During an interview on URA Marketplace, a program on GBC URA Radio hosted by Hannah Baribila, the initiative aims to support women entrepreneurs and challenge societal misconceptions about women’s capabilities.

The Odogwu Ladies, a collective of 16 entrepreneurial women both in Ghana and aboard, came together to create a support system for one another during challenging times such as funerals, weddings, and other financial emergencies. Their mission is not only to assist each other but also to empower young women interested in vocational skills, helping them become their own bosses and contribute positively to society. The name “Odogwu,” which signifies integrity, strength, and power, embodies the group’s commitment to uplifting women and fostering a sense of community.

Madam Nsorbila Sandra Atia, chairlady of the Odogwu Ladies, addressed misconceptions surrounding their group during the radio interview. Some critics have alleged that the group engages in rituals or is funded by men, while others have gone as far as labeling them as prostitutes. Atia firmly refuted these claims, emphasizing that all members are self-sufficient individuals who are either married or actively engaged in their careers. She highlighted her own experience of single handedly fending for herself and raising five siblings without external support, reinforcing the notion that women can thrive independently.

The Odogwu Ladies are also dedicated to giving back to the community. They plan to donate annually to orphanages and support widows and street children, showcasing their commitment to social responsibility. Their unique dress code, a white traditional Nigerian attire known as “abadga” was inspired by a story of resilience by two young ladies. It symbolizes their determination to honor their mother, who raised them without male siblings, by pledging to care for her in her old age just as she would have been cared for by sons.

Atia’s remarks also touched upon the broader societal issue of patriarchy and its detrimental effects on women’s empowerment. She urged society to dismantle the belief that women cannot achieve financial independence without male support. Such misconceptions not only undermine women’s capabilities but also perpetuate a cycle of dependency that limits their potential. The Odogwu Ladies stand as a testament to the strength and resilience of women who strive for self-sufficiency and seek to inspire others to break free from patriarchal constraints.

Through their initiatives and community outreach efforts, the Odogwu Ladies of Bolgatanga are setting a powerful example of female empowerment in the upper East Region and Ghana at large, proving that women can indeed uplift one another while challenging outdated societal norms.