Celebrating mothers: Honouring the Heart of the Ghanaian Society
Ghana will on Sunday, May 10, join the rest of the world in celebrating mothers and maternal figures for their selfless love, guidance, and pivotal role in shaping the fabric of society.
Mother's Day is a special occasion set aside to appreciate and honour the dedication, care, and sacrifices of mothers in the lives of individuals, families, and communities.
In Ghana, the day is observed annually on the second Sunday in May, with the 2026 celebration falling on May 10.
The origins of Mother's Day can be traced to ancient cultures, where mothers were revered for their roles in childbirth, nurturing, and caregiving.
In modern history, the celebration gained prominence in the United States through the efforts of Anna Jarvis, who initiated the observance in the early 20th century to honour her mother, Ann Reeves Jarvis, a social activist.
Born on May 1, 1864, in Webster, West Virginia, Anna Jarvis dedicated her life to preserving her mother's legacy. Following her mother's death in 1905, she organised a memorial service, which eventually led to the establishment of Mother's Day as a national holiday in the United States.
Today, Mother's Day is celebrated globally, with Ghana actively embracing the occasion to recognise the immense contributions of mothers and mother figures to societal development.
In the Ghanaian society, mothers are regarded as the cornerstone of family life. They play a vital role in preserving cultural values, passing down traditions, and nurturing future generations.
On Mother's Day, many Ghanaians take time to express gratitude through acts of love, gifts, and words of appreciation. As the world marks this year's celebration, mothers are being honoured for their strength, resilience, and unwavering dedication to their families and communities.
Whether biological, adoptive, or foster, their influence in shaping the lives of individuals and society remains unmatched.
The First Lady, Mrs Lordina Mahama, has extended heartfelt congratulations to mothers across the country, acknowledging their sacrifices and contributions to the welfare of their families and communities.
“We are the pillars of our homes and the heartbeat of our nation. Mothers nurture the future,” she said.
Also speaking to the Ghana News Agency, Mrs Sheila Minka-Premo, President of the Women's Forum of the Ghana Bar Association, called for stronger support systems to empower mothers and enhance their access to essential resources.
“As we mark Mother's Day, let us also acknowledge the challenges faced by many mothers in Ghana, particularly those living in poverty, struggling with access to healthcare, or facing social inequalities,” she said.
“Happy Mother's Day to all the amazing mothers and mother figures in Ghana. May your special day be filled with love, joy, and meaningful celebrations.
“May your tireless efforts be recognised and appreciated, not just today, but every day.”
As Sunday approaches, the message across Ghana is one of gratitude and recognition. Whether through a quiet family meal, a church service, or a public event, Mother's Day 2026 is expected to provide Ghanaians with an opportunity to honour the women who nurture, teach, and hold families together.
Beyond the personal celebrations, Mother's Day has also become a moment for broader reflection on maternal health, women's economic empowerment, and the support systems mothers need.
Civil society groups and health organisations are using the weekend to raise awareness about antenatal care, postpartum support, and girls' access to education.
The message remains clear: celebrating mothers also means investing in their well-being and opportunities.
GNA