Samira Bawumia
I used to be skeptical about the role of second ladies in Ghanaian politics. I seldom saw their impactful presence or notable contributions and I bet some of us would even struggle to remember the names of some of the second ladies since the inception of the 4th Republic.
But then I stumbled upon Her Excellency, Samira Bawumia’s website, www.sbawumia.org, and the treasure trove of exceptional works I found there…wow! I’m amazed!
Maybe I didn’t pay enough attention to previous second ladies or perhaps my media colleagues didn’t shine enough light on them and their great works but, chale, Samira has been quietly and diligently making a profound difference in the lives of many Ghanaians.
Safe delivery project
First thing that caught my attention was a documentary on Safe Delivery under the Samira Empowerment and Humanitarian Projects (SEHP) Initiative. I found her dedication to maternal health particularly inspiring, considering the fact that this “Safe Delivery Project” has saved many lives and brought hope to countless families.
The transformative impact of girl child education on our society cannot be over-emphasised. Investing in girls’ education not only empowers them individually, but also contributes to breaking the cycle of poverty, improving public health, and fostering economic growth. I honestly didn’t know Her Excellency has also been a tireless advocate for girl-child education, understanding that education is the key to empowering the younger generation and building a brighter future for Ghana. Thumbs up!
So, what really took me to her website? Well, she’s one of the over 6,000 people and brands I follow on IG and earlier today I saw a post that sort of gave me the incline that she’s also a charismatic leader; the driving force behind the upcoming maiden African Women and Children Conference, slated for August 2nd and 3rd in Accra, which will bring together influential figures from around the world to discuss pressing issues related to climate change and more.
Hosted by His Excellency, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, President of the Republic, the conference will feature Dr Amina Jane Mohammed, Deputy UN Secretary General, Dr Nkozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director General of the World Trade Organisation plus other notable speakers.
Sense of style
Having observed her for a while, I think her unique, mature and responsible sense of style, warmth, relatability and keen interest in the arts (at least I have seen her at a couple of theatre productions) have enabled her to connect pleasantly with many people.
Are you asking if I think she will make a fine First Lady? I honestly do not know. What I do know for sure is that having lost almost all confidence in the male candidates vying for the highest office, I find solace in the glimmer of hope that a woman like her could potentially wield significant influence in our political landscape.
The possibility of her occupying a position of power should fill any well-meaning and patriotic Ghanaian with delight, as it represents a chance for much-needed change and a fresh perspective in our body politic.
Discovering the remarkable works and advocacy of Her Excellency Samira Bawumia has been an eye-opening experience for me. I am inspired by her commitment to making Ghana a better place, and I am confident that she will continue to make a difference in the lives of Ghanaians for years to come even if she’s not in that office.
Before you go all political and switch into debate mode, please understand that the import of this post is not to tell you whom to vote for come 2024 or how to vote…
It is simply designed to celebrate an extraordinary woman, whose dedication to service and love for her nation should inspire us all.
By George Quaye alias Aboagye or GQ
The writer is a Ghanaian actor, media personality, entertainer and a communications professional
