Mrs. Mahama, other First Ladies to champion women’s resilience amidst Climate change, Conflicts

First Lady Mrs Lordina Dramani Mahama and other First Ladies from the continent convened for a high-level side event during the 80th session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA 80), organized by the Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD).

The critical gathering, themed “Building Resilience for Women and Girls in the Face of Climate Change and Conflict,” culminated in a unified campaign commitment from all participating First Ladies to address these pressing global challenges.

The discussions underscored the disproportionate impact of environmental degradation and armed conflicts on vulnerable populations, particularly women and girls, who often bear the brunt of displacement, resource scarcity, and increased violence.

A central outcome of the event was the collective commitment made by all First Ladies to a campaign pledge, which signifies a concerted effort to advocate for policies, mobilize resources, and implement programs to target the unique challenges faced by women and girls in climate and conflict-affected regions.

Mrs Mahama’s commitment statement centered on the theme of “Strength.”

“I pledged to support this campaign that centers on African solutions and strength, which is rooted in its women and girls,” she stated. “In the face of climate and conflict challenges, their courage sustains families and communities. By investing in their strength, we build resilience for generations to come.”

Earlier, the First Lady, Mrs. Lordina Dramani Mahama, urged the international community to work together to safeguard children’s future. She stressed the need for peace, security, and opportunities that will enable them to thrive.

Speaking at the annual interfaith prayer service for children at the Tillman Chapel of the Church Center in New York, held on the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly, Mrs. Mahama said the challenges facing children are compounded by reduced funding for essential services, declining trust in institutions, and an erosion of hope.

She warned that without decisive action, the world risks betraying its responsibility to the most vulnerable.

“We gather here from different nations and cultures, but we are united by our shared faith,” she said. She added that through prayer and strong leadership, “we can create a world where every child is protected and empowered to achieve their full potential.”

The First Lady described the suffering of children caught in wars and humanitarian crises, particularly in Africa, as heartbreaking.

“These are precious lives destroyed by circumstances beyond their control,” she lamented. “When nations fail to focus on policies that safeguard the home, strengthen communities, and nurture the youth, it is our children who suffer the most. They are the ones who lose parents, siblings, homes, dreams, and carry emotional scars that can last forever.”