The West Africa Women’s Congress in Tema, Ghana was a spiritually uplifting and unifying event with powerful teaching, dynamic worship and meaningful cross-cultural fellowship.
More than 1,600 delegates from Ghana, Togo, Nigeria, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Guinea, Mali and Burkina Faso attended the conference, themed Woman, Do Not Cry, from 25 to 27 April.
The delegates were joined by Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham (World President of Women’s Ministries), Commissioner Shelley Hill (World Secretary for Women’s Ministries) and Commissioner Yvonne Conrad (International Secretary for Africa).
The congress commenced with a colourful balloon-cutting ceremony, followed by devotions, praise and worship. Commissioner Buckingham delivered an inspiring sermon on the power of a woman’s tears. She reflected on biblical stories of women, saying that tears can be expressions of deep faith, humility and dependence on God. In a Bible study, Commissioner Hill emphasised the spiritual power of tears through the story of the Canaanite woman’s persistence (Matthew 15:21-28).
In a health workshop, Dr Ama Gyadua Boadu (Cape Coast Teaching Hospital in Ghana) discussed the symptoms and treatment for lupus, an autoimmune disease. Recent studies have shown that the incidence of lupus in Africa has been underdiagnosed and its impact underestimated. Dr Boadu highlighted the limited number of lupus specialists across West Africa.
A celebration of community and culture
The second day of the conference began with a prayer walk, creating space for spiritual reflection. Commissioner Conrad conveyed a heartfelt message, assuring women that God sees every tear – even those that never fall. Drawing from Psalm 30:5 and 1 Peter 5:6, she reminded participants that Jesus is the anchor in sorrow and the source of joy.
Lieut-Colonel Rasoa Khayumbi (Territorial President of Women’s Ministries, Liberia, Sierra Leone and Guinea) led a marriage workshop, in which she highlighted the value of prayer and faith in building strong marital relationships.
A dynamic rally then took place, featuring worship, cultural performances from Mali and Burkina Faso delegates, and a sermon from Commissioner Conrad. This was followed by a float parade, where, despite the rain, more than 1,000 participants marched joyfully through the streets of Tema in celebration.
The day culminated in a vibrant social night, where delegates showcased cultural attire, performances and songs representing their territories and rich African heritage.
Hundreds seek spiritual renewal
The final day began with a march of witness, as more than 1,650 uniformed delegates paraded through Tema, carrying banners and singing, spreading messages of salvation, hope and community service.
The event culminated with a holiness meeting, led by Colonel Janet Agyei Appeateng (Territorial President of Women’s Ministries, Ghana). Testimonies of healing and divine faithfulness were shared, and Commissioner Buckingham delivered a compelling message on God’s love and faithfulness. Her altar call saw hundreds respond, seeking spiritual renewal at the mercy seat (a place of prayer in Salvation Army worship gatherings).
The conference provided a powerful platform for spiritual renewal and women’s empowerment, and the theme echoed through all activities, calling women to a deeper faith and trust in God.