
Ghana’s Minister for Gender, Children, and Social Protection, Dakoa Newman, has made a passionate plea for the Affirmative Action Bill to be passed as soon as possible.
On Wednesday June 19, in Parliament, Dakoa Newman said there is the desperation of ordering the bill, which plans to guarantee more prominent portrayal and cooperation of women in dynamic decision making cycles across various areas.
She emphasized how important the bill is for making gender equality and women’s empowerment in Ghana.
The Minister also talked about the significant gender gaps that still exist in the country, particularly in leadership positions in businesses and politics.
Dakoa Newman added that, despite women’s contributions to national development, they are still disproportionately underrepresented in leadership positions.
She also revealed that the Affirmative Action Bill is designed to rectify this imbalance by mandating minimum quotas for women’s representation in key areas, thereby fostering a more inclusive and equitable society.
The Okaikwei South lawmaker also spoke about the bigger implications of passing the bill. She said that more women in leadership positions can make policies that are more comprehensive and work better.
Dakoa Newman argued that women’s unique perspectives and experiences are necessary for addressing healthcare, education, and social welfare issues. By guaranteeing that women have a voice in these basic regions, the bill would add to more all encompassing and responsive administration.
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The Gender Minister called on stakeholders, including Members of Parliament, civil society organizations, and the general public, to support the bill’s passage.
She urged legislators to make the bill a top priority on their agendas and to recognize its significance for the country’s development.
Madam Newman also urged advocacy groups to keep working to spread the word about the bill and how it could affect gender equality in Ghana.
“Today, at our premier institution, the University of Ghana, the Chancellor, the Chairperson of the University Council, the Vice Chancellor, and the Registrar are all women, leading the university to greater heights.”
“Mr. Speaker, despite these successes, women remain underrepresented in governance. The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) enjoins us to adopt temporary special measures to accelerate gender equality. Passing the Affirmative Action Bill will not only promote gender equality and women empowerment but also fulfil our international commitments.”
“Mr. Speaker, both major political parties, the NPP and the NDC, have unequivocally committed to passing this transformative bill. This bipartisan support underscores the bill’s significance and the urgency of our actions. We owe it to the current and future generations of Ghanaians to rise above partisan divides, honour this commitment, and ensure the passage of this landmark legislation.” she said.