Empower Women in Media – Samira Bawumia

By Faustina Appiah @Yhaa_Barnie

ACCRA – October 20, 2022: Samira Bawumiah, wife of Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has stated that media organizations are now more aware of women’s issues and some have taken concrete steps to be gender-sensitive and address stereotypes.

She made this statement Thursday October 20 at the two-day West Africa Media Excellence Conference and Awards (WAMECA-2022) held at Alisa Hotel, Accra. The theme for the conference was “Media & Women Empowerment in Africa”.

Mrs. Bawumiah, who is also the Global Ambassador for the Clean Cooking Alliance, said she is “a woman in the media”, and she understands “exactly what women go through”.

The Second Lady identified stereotypes of female newsmakers as a challenge. She said not many women can endure the insult, the sexism, and the stereotypical news angle that are thrown at female news makers.

She urged media houses to give women a voice and empower them to make sure they are shielded from unwarranted harassment that deters people from working in the media.

She also mentioned the challenges media producers face to get women to talk on their programs when they are required to do so.

“This is the reality, but the answer is not to disregard people who are reticent to speak up when given a chance”.

She said there are many socio-cultural factors that hinder women’s participation in the media, and we should all work together to find solutions.

“We know for instance that some female newsmakers have indicated that the times when morning shows and late evening discussion are held are the same times that women are likely to be preparing their children for school or for bed”, she explained.

She advised the media to keep trying, offer support, and build a safe space for women to openly express themselves in a positive way.