For the Women Support and Activist Group (WOSAG), the Civil Society Strengthening Fund (CSSF) under the Shift the Power programme came as a lifeline. When Samiha Yunus joined as Executive Director in February 2025, the organisation was struggling to stay afloat—under-resourced, with only two staff managing operations and finance, and without an up-to-date strategic plan.

The CSSF grant marked a turning point for WOSAG, ushering in a journey of renewal, institutional strengthening, and financial sustainability.

“Though the grant seemed small at first, it was key for WOSAG—it revived our professional identity and redefined our future,” Samiha reflects.

Samiha Yunus, Executive Director at WOSAG 

Rebranding, Restructuring for Impact

One of WOSAG’s first steps was to refresh its professional identity. The organisation underwent a complete rebranding exercise—introducing a new logo, revamping its digital presence, and launching an official website and active social media platforms. The adoption of Google Workspace streamlined documentation, access, and collaboration, while investments in tools like cameras and QuickBooks (online version) improved operational efficiency and transparency.

Internally, WOSAG restructured its human resource systems, introducing updated HR policies, contract renewals, and a transition plan for staff. With support from WACSI and its Board, staff undertook capacity-building sessions to enhance governance, documentation, and communication skills.

Building for Sustainability, Growth

Financial sustainability became central to WOSAG’s revival. The team conducted strategic donor mapping, explored local fundraising, and initiated social enterprise development—starting with a market feasibility study for women’s shea cooperatives and locally made products.

These efforts quickly bore fruit. WOSAG secured a $40,000 grant from the African Women’s Development Fund (AWDF) to implement a community-led initiative to end violence against women in Northern Ghana. The organisation also expanded its partnerships internationally, recently securing collaboration with Global Affairs Canada for a fully funded Accelerated Women Empowerment Project, reinforcing WOSAG’s growing credibility.

Community Engagement, New Initiatives

WOSAG’s community programming remains rooted in empowerment. Through its AWDF-supported initiative, it partners with Anbariya, one of the largest Muslim sects in Northern Ghana, to engage Imams and community leaders in integrating gender-based violence messages into sermons and community dialogues.

Plans are underway to extend this work to Christian communities, deepening interfaith engagement for women’s protection and empowerment.

The organisation has also developed a Young Female Fellowship Programme, designed to equip recent graduates with internship opportunities, mentorship, and practical exposure to strengthen their employability and leadership.

Efficiency and Teamwork

Internally, WOSAG has strengthened its financial discipline, introducing cost-saving measures like efficient energy use, pooled fieldwork resources, and prudent spending guided by a Reserve Policy. Staff now co-create funding opportunities; share calls for proposals and engage in joint knowledge-sharing sessions.

Within three months, the organisation submitted three major proposals—all aligned with its new strategic direction.

Looking Ahead

As WOSAG prepares to launch its new Strategic Plan in January 2026, the organisation stands as a model of resilience and transformation—proof that small, strategic investments in institutional capacity can yield lasting change.

The partnership with STAR-Ghana Foundation and WACSI has not only strengthened WOSAG’s systems but also inspired a renewed sense of purpose, credibility, and sustainability.

“We’ve moved from surviving to sustaining impact,” Samiha says. “The CSSF didn’t just fund our work—it rebuilt who we are.”