Women Against Adversity

Martha Ama Akyaa Pobee became Ghana's first female ambassador and permanent representative to the United Nations in New York in the year of 2015. She reflected on this experience as it was international Women's Day. 

She was excited to have recognition in her career, but some people were surprised seeing a woman in that position. Those who opposed her position thought New York would be too and for her and there should be male ambassador instead. She had to show her male colleagues that she capable by doing more. It took a lot of years to show her Ghana at the UN. 

Pobee knows firsthand the difficulties and challenges women face firsthand when it comes to conflicts. Those challenges could put stops for women in political and peace process, for example, cultural or not having the space to lead and participate. This must change as women's voices can show different ideas and perspectives. She met many women, specifically African women who shared her same struggles as her role at the UN. In 2012, women demanded to be at the negotiation table as they were not invited. This was a great step for women's voices to be heard. 

Peace is likely to last if women are involved in the process. This is shown through research when women participate in peace negotiations. 

Women's voices are important to be heard and empowered because peace will be long-lasting. 

Sources:

Women Hold Up Half the Sky | Africa Renewal (un.org)

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