Sandra Ankobia leads Women’s Institute Ghana outreach to Nsawam Prison inmates

Sandra Ankobia, founder of the Women’s Institute Ghana, has led a humanitarian outreach to inmates of the Nsawam Medium Security Prison, using the visit to call for compassion, dignity and a more humane approach to incarceration.

The outreach brought together women leaders and partners and focused on restoring a sense of worth among inmates while offering practical support to address welfare and health needs inside the facility. 

The initiative formed part of the Institute’s broader advocacy for inclusive development and social justice, particularly for women and other marginalised groups.

During the visit, the team donated essential supplies including water, drinks, confectioneries, medications, detergents and antiseptics to support daily living conditions and basic healthcare for inmates. Organisers said the donations were made possible through contributions from corporate bodies and individuals who responded to appeals for support.

The Women’s Institute Ghana said the outreach was intended not only as an act of charity but as a statement against stigma associated with incarceration. 

By engaging directly with inmates, the Institute sought to reinforce the view that correctional facilities should be spaces for reform and rehabilitation, rather than places where compassion is withdrawn.

The initiative also highlighted the Institute’s emphasis on leadership rooted in empathy and service. Organisers described the visit as a reaffirmation that leadership extends beyond professional achievement to include a responsibility to uplift people who are often overlooked.

Through the Nsawam outreach, the Women’s Institute Ghana said it would continue to promote collaboration, purposeful giving and social responsibility as part of efforts to build a more caring and inclusive society.