Pognamine: Ghana's Evolving Chieftaincy
Discover inspiring stories of women driving social change and community development
Wa's ancient Chieftaincy
The Chieftaincy institution in Wa has been in existence before the formal colonial governance in Ghana. Known as 'Pognamine', the women chieftaincy serves a crucial role in socio-cultural and traditional governance.
Women leading change
In Ghana's Upper West region, women leaders uphold cultural norms, resolve conflicts, and champion the well-being of women and children. They are vital to passing down heritage and strengthening communities.
Role of women Chiefs
Female chiefs exercise a lot of influence and manage the affairs of women in the various communities. This includes mediating in marriages to focusing on community development, as well as educating women on their roles in community sustainability.
Amamata Mumuni- Woman Chief of Duori (2022) by Nubuke FoundationOriginal Source: Nubuke Foundation
Women empowerment
The traditional female leaders use the position to empower and support women. Pognaa Amamata Mumuni is assisting the members of the Mother-to-Mother Support Group in her community with a loan scheme.
Aieshatu- Woman Chief of Nagyiri (2022) by Nubuke FoundationOriginal Source: Nubuke Foundation
Women's voices amplified
Through the chieftaincy institution, women chiefs in Wa, and across Ghana, play a vital role in bridging the gap between tradition and modernity, ensuring that the voices of and needs of women are addressed. They bring development to their community through collaboration.
Photos: Isaac Gyamfi
Project manager: Kwabena Agyare Yeboah
Field assistant: Philip Soonti
Research, Text & Curatorial Support: Jemima Adansi and Abiodun Ayoola
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