Vice President Prof Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has received the Yokama title during the celebration of Yokama 2026 in Manya Krobo, in the Eastern Region.
The Vice President joined His Royal Majesty Nene Sakite II, Konor of Manya Krobo and President of the Eastern Regional House of Chiefs, alongside traditional leaders and residents, to mark the annual celebration.
In her remarks, Prof Opoku-Agyemang highlighted the significant role women play in community development and called for stronger institutions and greater opportunities to enable them to contribute meaningfully to national progress.
The Vice President outlined government initiatives aimed at advancing social protection and gender equity, including the recent launch of the Social Protection Act, the Social Protection Regulations and the Affirmative Action (Gender Equity) Regulations.
She said the frameworks were intended to strengthen institutional accountability, expand opportunities and improve support for vulnerable individuals and households.
She emphasised, however, that the success of the initiatives would depend on collective efforts from government, institutions and the wider public.
Prof Opoku-Agyemang also highlighted the Women’s Development Bank, which is being established to improve access to finance, and the Free Sanitary Pads Programme, designed to address barriers that affect girls’ participation in education.
The Vice President urged young people to remain committed to learning, develop their abilities and make informed decisions about their future.
She stressed that education, discipline and access to opportunities were essential to preparing the next generation for meaningful participation in society.
Her message linked investment in education and gender equity to broader efforts to strengthen communities and promote national development.
Prof Opoku-Agyemang expressed gratitude to Nananom, the Manya Krobo Traditional Council and the people of the area for the celebration and the honour conferred on her.
She expressed hope that Yokama would continue to preserve Ghana’s rich cultural traditions while reinforcing a shared commitment to education, opportunity and community development.
