Historic milestone: Ghanaian MP’s Pass AFFIRMATIVE ACTION BILL

In a historic move, the Parliament of Ghana has passed the much-anticipated Affirmative Action Bill into law, marking a significant step towards gender equality and inclusive representation.

This groundbreaking legislation is the culmination of years of tireless advocacy by gender equality champions and a testament to the collective effort of parliamentarians committed to fostering a more equitable society.

The Affirmative Action Bill seeks to address the long-standing gender imbalances in Ghana’s political and public sectors. By mandating a minimum of 40% representation of women in all public decision-making bodies, the bill aims to create a more inclusive environment that empowers women and ensures their voices are heard at all levels of governance.

The journey to the passage of this bill has been long and arduous, marked by relentless campaigns, lobbying, and advocacy by numerous gender equality advocates. Organizations such as the Ghana Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA-Ghana), the African Women Lawyers Association (AWLA), and the Ark Foundation have been at the forefront of this movement, working tirelessly to highlight the importance of women’s representation in decision-making processes.

These advocates have not only raised awareness but have also provided invaluable research and data, demonstrating the positive impact of gender equality on national development. Their efforts have been instrumental in shaping public opinion and garnering widespread support for the bill.

The passage of the Affirmative Action Bill would not have been possible without the unwavering support and dedication of former Ministers of the Women, Gender and Social Protection and to the current Minister Hon Dakoa Newman (MP), they have been vocal proponents of the bill using their platforms to advocate for its importance and necessity.
I for a decade now have used any opportunity I access to advocate the need of more women representation in all spheres of decision making in our country.

Women MP’s including some men in Parliament worked diligently to build bipartisan support for the bill, emphasizing that gender equality is not just a women’s issue but a national imperative. Their leadership and commitment have been crucial in navigating the legislative process and ensuring the bill’s successful passage.

The government’s support has also been pivotal in the journey towards the bill’s passage. President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, who has been a prominent advocate for gender equality both nationally and internationally, has played a significant role in championing the bill. His administration’s commitment to women’s empowerment is evident in various initiatives aimed at promoting gender parity and supporting women’s participation in governance.

The passage of the Affirmative Action Bill has been met with widespread acclaim from various sectors of society. Civil society organizations, women’s groups, and international bodies have lauded the move as a progressive step towards achieving Sustainable Development Goal 5, which aims to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.

Prominent figures in the women’s rights movement, such as Lawyer Shella Minka Premo of FIDA and Dr. Angela Dwamena-Aboagye, Executive Director of The Ark Foundation, have expressed their elation and called for continued efforts to ensure the effective implementation of the law. They emphasized that the real work begins now, as Ghana seeks to translate this legislative victory into tangible changes on the ground.

LOOKING AHEAD

The passage of the Affirmative Action Bill marks a new chapter in Ghana’s history, one that promises greater inclusivity and equal opportunities for all. However, it is essential to recognize that this is just the beginning. The effective implementation of the law will require sustained effort, monitoring, and collaboration among all stakeholders.

In conclusion, the passage of Ghana’s Affirmative Action Bill is a monumental achievement that reflects the power of collective advocacy and the commitment of Ghanaian parliamentarians to advancing gender equality. It is a victory for all who have championed this cause and a beacon of hope for a more just and inclusive future. As Ghana embarks on this new journey, the world watches with anticipation and admiration, inspired by the nation’s unwavering dedication to creating a society where everyone has a voice and an equal opportunity to thrive.

COMFORT DARBO ✍️
Assembly woman
Women Advocate
MPhil
LLB