The First Lady, Her Excellency Lordina Mahama, has reaffirmed government’s commitment to women’s empowerment and skills development as a catalyst for Ghana’s transformation.
The Muslim Fashion and Technology Centre Graduation and Skills Expo took place on Saturday, September 28, 2025, at the National Mosque of Ghana, celebrating the achievements of Muslim women trained in fashion, technology, and entrepreneurship.
Held under the theme “Skilled Hands, Brighter Future: Empowering Women Through Skills and Health,” the event brought together diplomats, policymakers, educators, and community leaders to highlight women’s empowerment through skills development.
Representing the First Lady, Her Excellency Lordina Mahama, Deputy Presidential Spokesperson, Shamima Muslim delivered the keynote address, conveying the First Lady’s message of inspiration and support.
“Every skill you acquire is a shield against poverty, a tool for independence, and a pathway to prosperity,” the First Lady stated, commending the Muslim community for advancing women’s empowerment.
She emphasised that skills development is central to President Mahama’s “Resetting Ghana Agenda,” noting that the nation’s progress will depend on creativity, productivity, and a commitment to build, rather than natural resources alone.
As a gesture of support, the First Lady donated GHS 20,000 to the event’s organisers, Muslim Women in Teaching Ghana, while Shamima Muslim and her delegation contributed GHS 10,000 to assist graduates in launching or expanding their businesses.
The event also underscored the link between health and empowerment, with the First Lady announcing that HPV vaccination for girls aged 9 to 14 will soon be integrated into Ghana’s national immunisation schedule — describing it as “not just a health intervention, but a development strategy.”
She further reaffirmed government’s commitment to inclusive policies, including scholarships for Muslim women and youth in fields such as law, ICT, and medicine, and the recruitment of 3,000 Arabic school teachers.
“The hijab should never be a barrier to success,” Shamima Muslim further indicated, encouraging graduates to pursue excellence while staying true to their faith.
Dignitaries in attendance included Ambassador Simone Giger, Switzerland’s Ambassador to Ghana; Ambassador Dr. Erieka Bennett, Convening Founder and Head of Mission of the AU African Diaspora Forum; and Hajia Amina Deen Ibrahim, Founder and Executive Director of Muslim Women in Teaching Ghana.
In closing, Shamima Muslim urged the graduates to leverage their new skills for community transformation:
“Use your skills not just to survive, but to transform your homes, your communities, and your nation. May your skilled hands secure not only your future, but Ghana’s as well.”
