The Minister for Gender and Social Protection, Madam Otiko Afisa Djaba has asked Ghanaians to reach out to widows in our communities adding that such act restores hope.

Madam Otiko in a press release to mark International Widows Day stated that Ghana has succeeded in abolishing a number of widowhood rites which trample upon the basic human rights of widows however widows are still being targeted in subtle ways all over the country.

She added that some are denied rights to their estate, home and even children.

According to her, the progress of every society is measured by how they care for their vulnerable and poor.

She noted that empowering widows through access to decent work and protecting them from violence and all forms of abuse will give them the chance to maintain dignified lives, allow them full participation in decision – making and public life.

“As we commemorate the International Widows Day, I want us to remember that we share a common responsibility to help and protect the vulnerable. Let us reach out to the widows in our communities and help give them hope as they cope with life after bereavement”. She said.