The story of HON. Gladys Akotia from Ghana
The power of capacity building for women aspiring to be leaders or women in leadership can never be underestimated. This is because of the huge impact it has in shaping the women to be more empowered to impact their communities. The national association of local authorities of Ghana (NALAG) with support from the Federation of Canadian Authorities (FCM) under the partnership for municipal innovation, women in local leadership project (PMI-WILL) is working on a number of tailored programs to support the women caucus of NALAG.
One of such women is Gladys Akotia a two-term assembly member for Kefas Electoral Area in the Juaboso District of the Western North Region of Ghana who has been empowered as a results of the capacity training by NALAG and FCM. With topics including Gender inequality, time management, community engagement, lobbying skills, networking, leadership skills , elections before, during and after elections among others. With such trainings she was able to face off the stiff opposition during the recently held 2023 district level election held in Ghana. She contested with 3 men in her electoral area and won.
One major challenge is the perception of women in leadership in her area ‘Women leaders are often underestimated, especially in my region but thanks to the training and confidence I gained from FCM, I was able to campaign effectively and win the election’.
Gladys role an educator according to her has deepened her passion for community development, leadership, and empowering the next generation.
‘When I first began my leadership journey, I faced challenges with lobbying, networking, and community engagement. However, my encounter with the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) transformed my approach’.
For now Hon Gladys who lacked confidence, lobbying skills, leadership skill can now boost of enhanced lobbying skills, the power of networking and building relationships with stakeholders.
‘I learned how to effectively engage my community, listen to their concerns, and rally support for development projects’.
Among other things she successfully lobbied for the celebration of International Women’s Day in the Western North Region, which was hosted in Juaboso for the first time.
She has champion some key projects in her electoral area
● Two CHPS compounds to enhance healthcare access.
● Electricity supply to brighten up my community.
● Pipe-borne water for clean and safe drinking water.
● A market to support local trade and businesses.
● Improved time management and capacity-building programs for the community. Despite these successes, I’ve faced my fair share of challenges. One recurring issue is organizing communal labor. Even after extensive planning and mobilization, some community members are reluctant to participate, making it difficult to complete projects that require collective effort.
Hon Gladys says despite these challenges she is committed to breaking barriers for women in politics, fostering community development, and inspiring others to embrace leadership.’ My passion for empowering women, improving lives, and building a brighter future for Kefas Electoral Area continues to drive me forward’.
Hon Gladys is married with three wonderful children. She hold a Master’s degree in Guidance and Counselling from the University of Cape Coast. A teacher by profession and currently serve as the headmistress of Agoogyi Krom D/A Primary School.