President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has officially signed into law the Affirmative Action Gender Equity Bill 2024, marking a significant milestone in Ghana’s quest for gender equality.
The bill, passed by Parliament in July, aims to address deep-seated social, cultural, economic and political gender imbalances stemming from historical discrimination against women and patriarchal norms.
According to Dakoa Newman, Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection, the legislation seeks to promote diversity and equal opportunities for women, minorities, and underrepresented groups in leadership positions.
Key provisions include of the bill include gender representation targets of 30%, 35% and 50% by 2026, 2028 and 2030 in public offices and leadership roles, gender-responsive budgeting across all government sectors as well as a mandatory gender balance in education.
The move aligns with international agreements such as CEDAW and the African Charter on Human Rights, and addresses the stark underrepresentation of women in Ghana’s parliament (13.8%) and key leadership positions (less than 30%).
