Ghanaian registered non-governmental organisation, the Strong Woman Changemaker Africa (SWOCA) and the Réseau JFP Jeunes Femmes Profesionnelles (RJFP) based in Cote d’Ivoire, have joined forces to drive transformative change for women and children across the two nations.
This groundbreaking collaboration was formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed by President of SWOCA, Agnes Lamisi Adene and her Ivorian counterpart, Assetou Kone who is also the President of RJFP.
The signing of the MoU took place on Thursday, November 28, 2024, ahead of a conference aimed at building solidarity and fostering ambition among women, which took place on the 30th of the same month.
The Strong Woman Changemaker Africa is a non-profit organization established in Ghana and its aim is to empower Ghanaian women and children as well as African Women and Afro-descendant girls economically, politically and socially, and to participate directly to enable them to be agents of positive change.Ms. Lamisi Adene (Middle) being decorated with a piece of cloth as part of her participation in the conference
A shared vision for empowerment
The MOU outlines a shared commitment to empower women, enhance opportunities for children, and promote gender equality and sustainability across Africa.
By pooling their expertise and resources, the two organisations aim to tackle systemic challenges and open pathways to leadership, entrepreneurship and economic independence for underrepresented groups.
Key objectives of the partnership
This partnership is built on clear objectives, including economic empowerment which will see the the partners launch initiatives to create opportunities for women and children in both nations.
It seeks to promote cultural exchange by building bridges between communities in Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire to foster mutual growth and at the same time, advocate women’s representation in leadership and entrepreneurship, among others.
Areas of collaboration
The collaboration will span several strategic areas, such as training and capacity building which will entail organising workshops, mentorship programs, and skills development sessions targeting women entrepreneurs and children.
The two organisations will also engage in community outreach programmes to mobilise local support to address pressing social challenges.
The partnership will also see the two groups embark on sustainability projects to promote environmental conservation through green initiatives while engaging in cultural exchange programmes to strengthen connections and shared understanding between Ghanaian and Ivorian communities.
Commitments of the partners
While SWOCA will be required develop and implement programmes in Ghana, build partnerships and provide logistical support, RJFP is tasked to identify participants in Côte d’Ivoire, mobilise resources and lead advocacy campaigns.
The MOU establishes a Steering Committee with representatives from both organisations to oversee implementation, evaluate progress, and address challenges. The committee will convene biannually to review progress and ensure alignment with the partnership’s goals.
Environmental and social responsibility
Similarly, recognising the urgency of climate action, the partnership will incorporate environmental stewardship through tree planting, waste management training, and sustainability conferences.
This commitment underscores the holistic approach of the collaboration, addressing both social and environmental challenges.
Language and training exchange
A unique aspect of this partnership is the language and training exchange program, which will enable members to learn, share knowledge and develop skills through biannual cross-country visits.
