UER: HSWU Women’s Committee Leads Gender-Based Violence Sensitization Workshop in Upper East Region

BY: GIDEON K. ADU

The Women’s Committee of the Health Services Workers Union (HSWU) in the Upper East Region has successfully organized a Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Sensitization Workshop in the Region, reaffirming its commitment to promoting safe workplaces and communities free from harassment and abuse.

The purpose is to raise awareness on the prevalence and impact of gender-based violence among health workers and the wider community, to empower participants with knowledge on prevention, reporting, and survivor support mechanisms  and to strengthen collaboration between union members, health institutions, and community stakeholders in addressing GBV.

The workshop brought together: Health professionals from across the Upper East Region, Union representatives and executives, Community leaders and advocates for women’s rights.

HSWU Regional  Women Chairperson Sis. Selma Asolam Addih, in her opening remark noted, “Gender-based violence is not just a social issue—it is a health crisis. As health workers, we must be at the forefront of protecting vulnerable groups and ensuring dignity for all.” urging health workers and community leaders to unite in the fight against gender-based violence (GBV).

She emphasized that GBV remains a pressing issue affecting families, workplaces, and communities, undermining dignity and well-being. The Chairperson highlighted that health professionals are not only caregivers but also advocates for safe and inclusive environments.She described the workshop as a call to action—an opportunity to learn, share experiences, and strengthen collective resolve against violence and discrimination.

The National Gender Desk Officer of the Health Services Workers Union (HSWU) Sis. Harriet Amposah delivered a compelling address, stressing the urgent need for collective action to eliminate gender-based violence in workplaces and communities. The Officer reaffirmed the Union’s dedication to championing gender equity and protecting vulnerable groups from abuse and harassment.

She emphasized that gender-based violence is not only a social problem but also a workplace challenge that undermines productivity, morale, and the health of workers.

She highlighted the Union’s responsibility to ensure safe and inclusive environments where every worker can thrive free from intimidation or discrimination.

Expert facilitators led discussions on the psychological, social, and economic effects to  raise awareness on the prevalence and impact of gender-based violence in workplaces and communities.

Several participants noted that the workshop provided new perspectives on workplace harassment and reporting mechanisms. Others emphasized the importance of continuous sensitization and union-led advocacy to sustain momentum against GBV.