Increasing representation of women in society leads to more balance and effective policies - Dep. Dir. Dept of Gender, GoGCSP

Deputy Director of the Department of Gender at the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection, Sabia Kpekata, has emphasized the importance of increasing women's representation in society, noting that it leads to more balanced and effective policies.

According to her, research indicates that gender equality in the workplace contributes to a more resilient economy and accelerates economic growth. Therefore, creating economic pathways for women, especially in underserved communities, is essential to addressing gender inequality.

"Programs that provide access to funding, financial literacy, business training, and support for women entrepreneurs must be encouraged. In pursuit of the positive impact of gender equality, you are encouraged to pledge your support for the Affirmative Action Act.

"The Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection will continue to collaborate with key stakeholders to address gender inequality issues and ensure the smooth implementation of the Act to empower women and girls for sustainable development. Let us reaffirm our commitment to the Affirmative Action Gender Equity Act to create a more inclusive and equitable society," Sabia Kpekata stated during her speech at the Affirmative Action Conference in Accra, on November 4, 2024.

Meanwhile, Alma Pokua Adade-Prempeh, the wife of the New Patriotic Party’s vice-presidential candidate, declared at the event that the newly passed Affirmative Action Law marks a transformative moment for Ghanaian women, signaling new opportunities in leadership, education, and entrepreneurship.

She praised the law as a “beacon of real change” that, after years of advocacy, promises to reshape Ghana’s social and economic landscape by empowering women and fostering gender equality.

“This historic legislation is not just a victory for women; it’s a win for Ghana as a whole. It sets the stage for a future where every young woman, regardless of her background, has the tools and confidence to fulfill her dreams,” Adade-Prempeh said, her voice brimming with optimism.

She emphasized the significance of passing the Affirmative Action (Gender Equality) Bill on Pan African Women’s Day, noting that it symbolizes Ghana’s commitment to inclusive growth.

Organized by the National Gender Commission of the Graduate Students Association of Ghana (GRASAG) in partnership with the All-Africa Students Union (AASU), the conference witnessed a massive turnout. In a call to action for a more equitable future, Mercy Yaa Boatemaa Appiah, National Gender Commissioner of GRASAG, emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts to bring the Affirmative Action Act to life.

“We urge every stakeholder, especially educational institutions, to integrate gender equality measures and provide our future leaders with the knowledge and tools to advocate for their rights,” she said.

“We call upon government agencies and private organizations to be active collaborators, to fulfill their mandates under this Act, and to ensure a fair representation that benefits all Ghanaians. Together, let us transform this legislation into lasting change," Mercy Yaa Boatemaa Appiah added.

The Affirmative Action Law mandates gender balance in government, aiming for 50% female representation by 2030, and challenges the private sector to achieve a minimum of 30% female representation by 2026.

KA

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