Mrs. Samira Bawumia, Wife of Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, has assured minority and marginalised communities of equality under the leadership of her husband, who is also Flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) for Election 2024
She said the government of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo remained most committed to the development of an inclusive society and that Dr Bawumia should be trusted with the charge of marginalised groups within the Ghanaian Society.
The Second Lady was addressing the members of Fulani Community at the 12th Annual Conference of the Ghana Chapter of Tabital Pulaaku International, an organisation of a popular nomadic tribe.
The three-day conference was held in the Volta regional capital, Ho, on the theme: “Promoting Peaceful Coexistence and Fulbe Cultural Heritage.”
Mrs. Bawumia said the nomadic community remained an integral part of the Ghanaian society and with significant share of economic and socio-cultural relevance, and thus deserved general acceptance.
She assured the community of continuous support under the leadership of Dr Bawumia, and which would ensure education and social opportunities of equal measure.
The Second Lady, who is a member of the tribe, said, “the Fulani community has a unique place in Ghana, and our contributions to agriculture, trade, and cultural diversity are invaluable.
“It is essential that we recognise and celebrate this heritage as part of our national identity. Under the leadership of H.E Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, the New Patriotic Party has continually prioritised inclusivity, ensuring that every Ghanaian, regardless of their background, feels valued and represented. A nation is developed when all its voices are heard, and all its people are given the opportunity to thrive.
She said: “Under the leadership of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, we have implemented policies that promote the rights and recognition of minority groups, including the Fulani community.
“Our government recognises the unique challenges faced by minority tribes and is committed to addressing these issues through carefully-thought-through policies. We continue to engage with various stakeholders to ensure that the concerns of the Fulanis and other minority groups are integrated into national development plans.
“One of our most ardent advocates for inclusivity is my Dear husband, Vice President and Flagbearer of the NPP, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. Dr. Bawumia has been at the forefront of implementing policies that not only focus on economic growth but also prioritise social equity.
“Dr Bawumia strongly believes that knowledge is the only way to empower people. We want our children, including Fulani children, to have access to quality education that will equip them for the future,” she stated.
The Second Lady also assured of Dr Bawumia’s support for women and spoke of programmes and initiatives including capital support for women entrepreneurs.
She said: “As we look ahead, our vision is clear. We aim to foster a Ghana where every ethnic group, including the Fulani community, has a seat at the table—a Ghana where diversity is celebrated and not used as a tool for division.
The NPP government remains our surest partner to building a more inclusive Ghana. Let us embrace our diversity and use it as a strength, as we strive for a future where every Ghanaian feels proud of their identity and is empowered to contribute to our nation’s growth. Together, we can ensure that the voices of the Fulani and all minority tribes are not only heard but celebrated.”
Thousands from the nomadic tribe thronged the Jubilee Park in Ho for the celebration, which lasted three-days and hosted a myriad of cultural performances.
Heads of political parties and major stakeholders honoured the event, and the Second Lady was special guest of honour.
Leaders of the community made appeals to the government for more inclusive policies particularly in the areas of education and skills training.
GNA