As Ghana heads toward the 2024 general elections, the increasing involvement of women in the political sphere is a notable shift in the country’s historically male-dominated landscape. This year, three women have emerged as vice-presidential candidates, each with the potential to break new ground as Ghana’s first female vice president.
Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang
A trailblazer in Ghanaian politics and academia, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang is a leading figure in the National Democratic Congress (NDC). She made history in 2020 when she became the first female running mate for a major political party, alongside former President John Mahama.
Opoku-Agyemang’s career is marked by significant milestones. She was the first woman to serve as Vice Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast and has held key leadership roles, including Chairperson of the Forum for African Women Educationalists (FAWE). Her contributions to education and policy reform as Minister of Education under Mahama’s administration have solidified her as a strong candidate in the political arena.
Margaret Obrine Sarfo
Margaret Obrine Sarfo, the vice-presidential candidate for the Liberal Party of Ghana (LPG), is a passionate advocate for women’s empowerment. Inspired by Nana Konadu Agyemang-Rawlings’ pioneering role as the presidential candidate for the National Democratic Party (NDP), Sarfo is determined to push for greater gender equality in politics.
Hailing from Cape Coast, Sarfo represents the Central Region and continues to champion the inclusion of women in leadership roles. Her candidacy reflects the growing momentum for female representation at the highest levels of governance.
Dr. Maryam Esaka Kriesie
Dr. Maryam Esaka Kriesie, the vice-presidential candidate for the Progressive People’s Party (PPP), brings a wealth of expertise from Ghana’s financial sector. Having served as a senior manager at the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) of Ghana, Dr. Kriesie has played a pivotal role in shaping investment management policies and regulatory frameworks within the capital markets.
With academic credentials that include a PhD in Finance, an MBA, and specialized certifications, Dr. Kriesie’s knowledge of finance and economic policy positions her as a strong contender in this year’s elections. She also lectures at both the University of Ghana Business School and the University of Professional Studies, Accra.
Breaking New Ground
As Ghana’s political landscape evolves, these women stand at the forefront of a historic opportunity. Each of them brings a unique blend of experience and expertise to the table, and with the possibility of making history as Ghana’s first female vice president, their presence on the political stage reflects the country’s gradual but significant shift toward gender equality in leadership.
Whether in education, finance, or advocacy, these women are reshaping the political narrative and challenging the status quo, marking a new chapter in Ghana’s democratic journey.
