Ghana's One Billion Rising demands justice and bodily autonomy on eighth anniversary

One Billion Rising (OBR) Ghana has marked its eighth anniversary with a call for stronger measures against gender-based violence (GBV). The annual event, held in the Bono Region, brought together women, schoolchildren, and allies to push for justice and support for survivors. This year's theme, Our Bodies, Our Earth, Our Future, linked bodily autonomy to environmental sustainability and long-term change.

The movement began in 2012 when playwright Eve Ensler launched One Billion Rising as a global campaign. By February 2013, actions took place in 205 countries, with thousands of events now held annually, particularly in Asia and Africa. In Ghana, OBR has grown steadily since 2018, focusing on education and solidarity among women.

This year's activities included workshops and gatherings at Awisa M/A, Wuropo M/A Basic Schools, and the Presbyterian School. Participants received donated items such as sanitary pads, clothes, shoes, and school supplies. Country Director Vickenzie Gifty Offei stressed that violence against women remains a worldwide issue, with many survivors staying silent due to stigma.

Offei also urged women to seek support and stand together. She argued that Valentine's Day should serve as a moment to demand dignity and freedom from abuse. The organisation has spent eight years running sensitisation programmes across Ghana, teaching communities about GBV and its impact.

Globally, similar initiatives have emerged, with events in countries like Germany, Austria, and Italy. The movement continues to expand, with future campaigns already planned under themes like Women on Fire – Ni una menos and #RiseForEmpathy.

OBR Ghana's anniversary events reinforced the need for collective action against gender-based violence. The organisation's ongoing programmes aim to educate communities and provide safe spaces for women to share their experiences. This year's focus on bodily autonomy and environmental justice reflects a broader push for systemic change.