President Akufo-Addo has assented to the Affirmative Action Gender Equity Bill 2024, which was passed by Parliament in July this year. This landmark legislation, first introduced in 2016, aims to enhance women’s participation in governance and decision-making in Ghana.
It promotes diversity by ensuring that women, minorities, and other underrepresented groups have equal opportunities in leadership at all levels.
The bill seeks to address social, cultural, economic, and political gender imbalances stemming from historical discrimination against women and persistent patriarchal norms.
In alignment with international agreements such as CEDAW and the African Charter on Human Rights, it sets targets for gender representation of 30% by 2026, 35% by 2028, and 50% by 2030 in public offices and leadership roles.
Dakoa Newman, Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection, announced the news in a post on X, stating, “President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has assented to the Affirmative Action (Gender Equity) Act, 2024. Next Step: Implementation.
” Despite women making up 51.2% of the population, they currently hold only 13.8% of parliamentary seats and less than 30% of key leadership positions.
In local elections, only 4.1% of assembly members are women. The bill will also introduce gender-responsive budgeting across all government sectors.
Political parties will be required to meet progressive gender equality targets in nominations and leadership, with the Electoral Commission overseeing compliance
