On 15th October 2025, the Golden Inspires Foundation (GIF-Ghana), in partnership with SWIDA Ghana and Plan International, celebrated the International Day of Rural Women 2025 at Nadundo Community in the Mion District of Ghana’s Northern Region. The event was held under the national theme, “Empowering Rural Women: Strengthening Communities, Sustaining the Future,” and served as a powerful platform to recognise, celebrate, and empower rural women who continue to play indispensable roles in advancing sustainable development in their communities.

The commemoration aimed to raise awareness about the unique contributions of rural women to community development and to promote their health, well-being, and economic empowerment. The event brought together over 200 rural women, community leaders, health professionals, and representatives from partner organisations. It created a safe and interactive environment for dialogue, education, and empowerment, with a strong focus on breast cancer awareness and screening.

In her welcome remarks, Ms. Rahana Abdul Majeed, the Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) Coordinator of Golden Inspires Foundation, emphasised the importance of empowering rural women as agents of change. She highlighted that when rural women are healthy, educated, and supported, entire communities thrive. She further noted that health education and access to early screening are essential in preventing breast cancer-related deaths among rural women who often face barriers to healthcare access.

The celebration featured free breast cancer screening and sensitisation sessions, facilitated by professional health practitioners from the Ghana Health Service and local health facilities. The women were educated on breast self-examination techniques and the significance of early detection. Many participants expressed gratitude for the initiative, stating that it was their first time receiving professional screening and health education of this kind.

Speaking on behalf of SWIDA Ghana, a representative reiterated the organisation’s commitment to promoting gender equality and advancing women’s rights, particularly in underserved rural areas. She stressed that empowering rural women is a critical step towards achieving sustainable development and breaking the cycle of poverty and inequality. Representatives from Plan International also reaffirmed their partnership commitment, acknowledging the event as a practical example of how collaboration can drive real impact in communities.

The event was both interactive and educative, incorporating storytelling, health talks, and open discussions that encouraged women to share their experiences and challenges. Beyond the screening, the women were reminded of their vital role in building healthier and more resilient communities. The discussions also focused on encouraging women to take proactive measures for their health and to seek medical care promptly when they detect unusual changes in their bodies.

Golden Inspires Foundation, through this initiative, reaffirmed its ongoing commitment to advancing women’s health, empowerment, and leadership. Over the years, the Foundation has implemented several impactful programmes promoting menstrual health education, breast cancer awareness, and community development across various districts in Northern Ghana.

As the event concluded, participants left feeling empowered, informed, and inspired. The success of the Nadundo commemoration demonstrated the importance of continuous partnership and community engagement in addressing rural women’s health and empowerment challenges.

Golden Inspires Foundation extends heartfelt appreciation to SWIDA Ghana, Plan International, the Ghana Health Service, community leaders, and all participants for their unwavering support and collaboration. Together, we can continue to build stronger, healthier, and more inclusive communities where every woman and girl thrives.