Khadija Dabonni officially takes charge of Women and Children affairs at BDA

The Magaajiya of Oyibi Zongo Khadija Ali Dabonni has been sworn in as the new chairperson for women and children’s affairs on the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the Bisaa Development Association (BDA), a prominent ethnic organisation in Ghana.

The ceremony, held at Afrikiko restaurant in Accra, saw four of eight newly elected executives take their oath of office for a three-year term.

She takes charge of the BDA’s Women’s Wing in her new role, which includes overseeing initiatives for women’s empowerment, child welfare, and advocating for gender equality within the Bissa community.

She is one of five members from the previous administration who sought re-election.

Speaking to Bissanews.com after taking her oath of office, Ms Dabonni outlined her vision, which includes skills training initiatives she has already set in motion in some parts of Accra.

“My aim is to empower Bissa women and children through education, skills training, and health initiativesm” she said.

“This is something I have been doing, and I believe I will need the support of all to extend it across the country for the benefit of our people. We will work tirelessly to ensure their voices are heard and their needs are met within our community and beyond.”

Ms Dabonni brings considerable experience, having previously served as deputy women’s commissioner for the BDA. She is also a member of the Queen Mothers Association of Ghana and its Greater Accra branch.

She is the CEO of the Oyibi Muslim Women and Children Foundation, a charity organisation she established  in 2020.

It has been a fast rise for the Dabonni who first join the BDA as a vice Chairperson for the Greater Accra Regional branch of the BDA. 

She was appointed as the deputy Women’s  commissioner following the exit of Madam Sakina Dabre in 2022.

Of the 11 constitutionally mandated positions, nine were contested, leaving two vacant. These include the deputy position for women and children’s affairs, as well as both the  assistant role in the finance department.

The newly elected NEC will have the authority to fill these vacancies in consultation with the Lemagan’s Council.

The BDA’s NEC, headed by re-elected Chairman Musah Shaibu Gutare Zanni, represents the Bissa community in Ghana and works to promote development and unity among its members.

The remaining five executives are set to be sworn in virtually at a later date, reflecting the BDA’s geographically diverse membership and embrace of modern technology.

The event was attended by members of both the newly elected and outgoing committees, as well as the Lemagan and his Council members, highlighting the significance of the transition.