Nsuta-Ashanti, May 28, GNA - Nana Serwaa Ampaafo Birakatu, Sompahemaa of Nsuta Traditional Area has expressed concern about some social, traditional and cultural practices as well as some forms of violence had created obstacles for the development of women. She noted that women were subjected to many different forms of violence and practices that had rendered them incapable of contributing meaningfully towards the country's socio-economic development. Nana Birakatu 52, expressed the concerns when speaking to Ghana News Agency after her installation at Nsuta in Sekyere Central District on Sunday.

She is also a Principal Revenue Superintendent of Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly and Assembly Member for Asokore Electoral area at Nsuta. Nana Birakatu pointed out that women continued to be discriminated against in recognition and exercise of their rights in public and in private in spite of the ratification of International and Regional Human Rights Instrument, while some countries still maintained laws and practices that discriminated against women.

"Selective traditional and customs are used by some countries to perpetuate discrimination against women,' she said. Nana Birakatu observed that, without gender-based and participatory governance, peace and sustainable development could not be achieved. Nana Siabura Aduwaa II, Queen mother of Nsuta Traditional Area said her enstoolment was in recognition of her immense contribution towards socio-economic development of Nsutaman and Sekyere Central District. However, she advised her to intensify her activities and mobilize available resources in the traditional area to improve the living standards of the people.