Support women to attain financial independence — Asare Nyarko

Support women to attain financial independence for national development, Mr. Peter Kwadwo Asare Nyarko, a Financial Literacy Advocate has stated, stressing even though the world has reviewed some labour laws, working women are still stigmatized in many parts of the world in financial matters.

Speaking in an interview Mr. Nyarko said women find it difficult to share and discuss their financial goals with their families because they are still considered secondary financially; "so it is imperative for family members to encourage and support young women.

“Everyone including minors should be invited to observe conversations that are related to setting financial goals with family members, it is important for a woman to prioritize financial independence early on in her life”.

Mr. Nyarko, who is also a Finance and Business Planner Consultant said earning an income should be a top priority on the financial to-do list of a woman.

He said, "studies suggest that women who are not able to or allowed to earn an income find it difficult to leave an abusive relationship. They are unable to take the necessary steps against violence and injustice around them or in their household."

He said achieving financial stability should not be an obligation for only the men as heads of the family, stressing "it is quite encouraging, when we look around we see that women are increasingly embracing financial literacy and independence with zeal and eagerness.

"We see that most of them have the utmost freedom to access resources and have a strong support system backing them”.

Mr Nyarko said for communities to grow and prosper there was the need to take steps to empower, encourage and promote women to gain financial independence.

Meanwhile, Madam Lilian Sally Addo, the Country Head for United Nations Youth Association Ghana (UNYA-GH) urged women to explore as they are capable of achieving their desired goals.

She said the world is incomplete without women hence they must not make themselves inferior by underestimating their capabilities.

Madam Addo said some women are making the world a better place to live therefore they must be celebrated, adding that "I cherish your various contributions towards the development of society, our gallant and more appropriately, decent and beautiful ladies out there."

She noted that there is always a huge vacuum in a place where a woman is not involved or where the women are not performing their part.

"Imagine our bedrooms without us, imagine our homes without us, imagine our kids being raised without us, and imagine men taking decisions by relegating us to the background, and finally imagine a world without women, that will be impossible," she stated.

She encouraged all women to know that they are priceless to the world therefore they need to know their rights and fight for them.