In Bawku, a region often marked by hardship, a beacon of hope shone brightly this Mother’s Day. The Sung Biela Foundation Ghana extended a hand of compassion to 40 single mothers and widows, offering not just gifts, but a profound sense of recognition. This act underscores the Ghana Foundation’s commitment to uplifting vulnerable women in the Upper East Region, where the struggles of motherhood are often amplified by economic and social challenges. The event, meticulously organized, served as a poignant reminder that even in the face of adversity, community support can make a tangible difference in the lives of those who need it most. This blog post delves into the heart of this event, exploring its impact and the broader mission of the Sung Biela Foundation to empower women in northern Ghana.

The Mother’s Day celebration, held in the heart of the Kusaug Traditional Area, was more than just a ceremonial gesture. It was a carefully planned event designed to honor and uplift women who often go unnoticed. The Ghana Foundation recognized that these Bawku mothers, burdened with the dual responsibilities of motherhood and sole breadwinning, deserved a moment of respite and appreciation. The atmosphere was filled with a sense of camaraderie as the women gathered, sharing stories and finding solace in their shared experiences.

Each of the 40 women selected to participate received a package of essential items designed to ease their daily burdens. Bags of rice, cooking oil, and mackerel formed the cornerstone of the gifts, providing sustenance for their families. Clothes were also included, offering a touch of dignity and comfort. Beyond these tangible items, each woman received undisclosed cash support, providing immediate financial relief. The gratitude expressed by the beneficiaries was palpable. Alimatu Iddrisu, a widow, shared her heartfelt appreciation: “The gift makes me feel seen. At least today, I know someone remembers me.” Anaba Gladys, another widow, echoed this sentiment, noting, “It’s not easy to provide for your children. This support gives me some relief. May God bless the Foundation.”

The women, while deeply appreciative of the immediate support, also voiced a need for long-term solutions. They spoke of their desire for livelihood training, opportunities to learn skills that would enable them to become self-sufficient. They also emphasized the importance of education for their children, recognizing it as a pathway to a brighter future. These calls for continued support underscore the need for sustainable programs that empower women to break the cycle of poverty and create lasting change in their lives and the lives of their children.

Jacob Ayanaba, Programme Coordinator of the Sung Biela Foundation, emphasized that this initiative is deeply rooted in the foundation’s mission to empower vulnerable women. He characterized single mothers and widows as “silent heroes,” acknowledging the immense responsibilities they shoulder with minimal support. Ayanaba also extended gratitude to the foundation’s supporters and donors, with special recognition given to Mrs. Naa Maamiley Addy for her unwavering dedication to vulnerable communities.

“This Mother’s Day, we chose to honour single mothers and widows because they are the silent heroes. They carry heavy responsibilities and often do so with little support. Today, we say, ‘We see you. We value you,'” – Jacob Ayanaba, Programme Coordinator

Looking ahead, the Sung Biela Foundation is committed to expanding its support for women in the Bawku area. Plans are underway to introduce skills training programs and provide small business support, focusing on equipping women with income-generating skills. These programs will encompass areas such as poultry farming, soap making, and petty trading, providing women with the tools they need to achieve financial independence and improve their livelihoods.

“Beyond today, we want to equip women to earn income through poultry, soap making, or petty trading. That’s our next step.” – Jacob Ayanaba

The impact of the Sung Biela Foundation’s work has not gone unnoticed within the community. Residents in Bawku have lauded the foundation for its commitment to supporting women who are often overlooked during celebrations. One resident remarked, “In our culture, mothers are the backbone of the family. What Sung Biela Foundation has done today is not just charity—it is honouring tradition.” This sentiment highlights the cultural significance of the foundation’s efforts and its positive impact on the community’s values.

The Sung Biela Foundation Ghana recognizes that their work is far from complete. To expand their reach and provide support to more vulnerable groups in the Upper East Region, they are actively seeking partnerships with individuals, corporate bodies, and NGOs. A collaborative effort, they believe, will enable them to touch more lives and create a more equitable and supportive society.

“Our work is just beginning. With more support, we can touch more lives,” – Jacob Ayanaba

The Sung Biela Foundation Ghana’s Mother’s Day initiative in Bawku stands as a testament to the transformative power of community support. By providing essential resources and acknowledging the invaluable contributions of single mothers and widows, the foundation is making a tangible difference in the lives of these women and their families. The Ghana Foundation’s dedication to empowerment, through ongoing skills training and small business support, holds the promise of fostering lasting positive change in the Upper East Region, building a brighter future for generations to come. By empowering Bawku mothers, they are empowering the entire community.