Ghanaian Female Commander Cecilia Erzuah Honored with UN’s Military Gender Advocate of the Year Award
Cecilia Erzuah, a Ghanaian female commander, has been recognized and celebrated for her outstanding service by receiving the United Nations’ 2023 Military Gender Advocate of the Year award. This prestigious accolade underscores Erzuah’s commitment to promoting gender equality and addressing domestic violence.
Erzuah’s journey towards a military career was not a straightforward one. After completing her university studies, she was faced with a difficult decision. On one hand, she had been offered a position as a lecturer, a profession she had excelled at previously. On the other hand, she had a desire to serve in the military, fostered by her participation in Ghanaian youth cadet programs during her school years.
Undeterred by the dilemma, Erzuah decided to pursue her military aspirations while still maintaining her commitment to education. She believed that she could continue lecturing while serving in the military. Little did she know that her decision would lead her towards becoming an exemplary advocate for gender equality.
As the commander of a Ghanaian engagement platoon with the UN Interim Security Force for Abyei, Erzuah actively engaged in discussions surrounding gender equality and domestic violence. Her role involved maintaining engagement with local leaders and organizations, acting as a crucial liaison between her battalion and the community.
Erzuah’s accolade is particularly noteworthy as she is the first Ghanaian recipient of the United Nations’ Military Gender Advocate of the Year award. Although Ghana contributes the largest number of women military peacekeepers, Erzuah’s recognition highlights her exceptional contributions in promoting gender equality within the military and peacekeeping operations.
Erzuah’s experiences in Abyei, a conflict-ridden region situated between Sudan and South Sudan, exposed her to the dire circumstances faced by local communities. The region has witnessed a worsening humanitarian crisis, with escalating violence and the risk of famine. Additionally, cases of sexual violence have reached distressing levels, further highlighting the urgent need for peacekeepers like Erzuah.
As a peacekeeper, Erzuah and her platoon played a vital role in supporting internally displaced individuals, providing them with safety and aid. The trust and rapport they built with the local community, particularly women, proved invaluable. Their presence and outreach efforts inspired more women to join community protection committees, fostering greater participation and representation within traditionally male-dominated fields.
Secretary-General Antonio Guterres praised Erzuah’s impactful work, noting that her dedication has set a high standard for addressing the needs and concerns of women in peacekeeping operations. Local community members lauded the positive impact of mixed patrols, which have contributed to boosting their confidence and ensuring safer daily activities.
Erzuah’s journey as a female commander in the military has not been without challenges. Adapting to unfamiliar environments and remaining alert are inherent aspects of a peacekeeper’s role. Furthermore, women face additional hurdles, such as dealing with extended patrols in areas lacking infrastructure to support their specific needs, including access to menstruation products.
However, Erzuah’s unwavering determination fuels her belief that women can excel and make a lasting impact in any field they choose. Her personal experiences and achievements inspire others to overcome their own obstacles and strive for greatness.
In addition to her military career, Erzuah showcases her creativity as an amateur fashion designer in her free time. She believes that anyone can excel and become outstanding in their chosen field with the right mindset and dedication.
As Cecilia Erzuah continues to serve as a role model and advocate for gender equality within the military, her story serves as a testament to the transformative power of determination and perseverance.
