Vice-President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has called for urgent, collective action to create an environment where girls in Ghana can thrive, develop confidence, and contribute meaningfully to society. Speaking at the 70th Anniversary of the Ghana Girls’ Brigade in Accra, she highlighted challenges such as low self-esteem, learning difficulties, and early marriages—issues that continue to limit the potential of many young girls.
This article discusses her key message, why it matters, and the role of communities in empowering girls.
Vice-President Advocates for Collective Responsibility
Prof. Opoku-Agyemang stressed that empowering girls requires the active involvement of parents, communities, institutions, and society at large.
She emphasised:
“Our girls face too many challenges and this is where we all come in. Everyone must play their role to ensure that our girls shine. And when they shine, they shine not only for themselves but for their communities.”
She praised the Ghana Girls’ Brigade for decades of commitment to raising confident, disciplined, and empowered young women.
Highlights from the 70th Anniversary Celebration
A Gathering of Religious and National Leaders
The event took place at the Rev. Peter Dagadu Memorial Methodist Church at Osu, with the Vice-President arriving in her Methodist Church cloth, accompanied by Chief of Staff Alex Segbefia and other officials.
She was welcomed by:
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Most Rev. Prof. J. K. Asamoah-Gyedu, Presiding Bishop of the Methodist Church Ghana
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Leaders of the Girls’ Brigade
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Bishop of the Accra Diocese Anglican Church, Rt Rev. Dr Daniel Sylvanus Mensah Torto
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Archbishop Charles Agyinasare of Perez Chapel International
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The Roman Catholic Archbishop of Cape Coast, Charles Gabriel Palmer-Buckle
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Minister of Gender, Dr Agnes Naa Momo Lartey
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Greater Accra Regional Minister Linda Ocloo
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Representatives from Presbyterian Church Ghana
The celebration was themed “Rise in strength, Soar like an Eagle (Isaiah 40:3).”
New Patrons Inducted and Donations Made
Most Rev. Prof. Asamoah-Gyedu inducted 11 individuals as Patrons of the National Girls’ Brigade.
The Vice-President also donated a financial contribution to support the Brigade’s ongoing work.
Vice-President Commends the Brigade’s Impact
Prof. Opoku-Agyemang celebrated the transformation of the Girls’ Brigade from a humble organisation into a national institution shaping generations of girls.
She remarked:
“In 70 years, we have done a wonderful job shaping our girls. It is clear to all of us why it is important to pay attention to our girls.”
She attributed the Brigade’s success to its Christ-centred mandate of serving, seeking, and following Christ—describing the motto as “both a guide and a challenge.”
Sermon: Embracing the Season of Advent
During the service, Most Rev. Prof. Asamoah-Gyedu preached on the meaning of Advent, explaining it as a period of preparation for Christmas.
He noted that:
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Advent means “coming”
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It reminds Christians that God became human and lived among people
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It is a time for reflection, truth, and integrity
He encouraged Christians to use the season to examine their lives and recommit to spiritual and moral principles.
FAQs About the Vice-President’s Call for Girls’ Empowerment
1. What key challenges facing girls were highlighted?
Low confidence, learning difficulties, and early marriages.
2. What did the Vice-President emphasise?
The need for collective responsibility to help girls reach their full potential.
3. What was the theme of the 70th Anniversary?
“Rise in strength, Soar like an Eagle (Isaiah 40:3).”
4. Who attended the celebration?
Religious leaders, government officials, and leaders of the Girls’ Brigade.
5. What support did the Vice-President offer?
A financial donation to support the work of the National Girls’ Brigade.
