Bold action needed to close gender gaps in leadership – Dr Tuckson

The Gender Equity and Research Manager at Emerging Public Leaders (EPL), Dr Efua Tuckson, has called for bold and intentional measures to dismantle the barriers preventing women and girls from attaining leadership roles and participating in decision-making.

She explained that although women constitute 50.7 per cent of Ghana’s population, their voices remain significantly underrepresented in key decision-making spaces.

Despite their immense contributions, she noted that fewer than 30 per cent of senior leadership positions are occupied by women. Furthermore, in Parliament, where critical national decisions are made, women hold only 14.7 per cent of the seats, even after the latest elections and the efforts made by various stakeholders to increase female representation.

"These disparities are unacceptable, and change cannot wait. We need bold, intentional action to break these barriers," she asserted.

Dr Tuckson emphasised the need for transformative policies that empower women, inclusive leadership structures that guarantee fair representation, and strong commitment from governments, institutions, and stakeholders to drive change.

Speaking at the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection (MoGCSP) health walk to mark International Women’s Day, observed annually on 8 March, she highlighted that this year’s theme, "For All Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment," is a rallying call to ensure that every woman and girl, irrespective of their background, has equal opportunities, access to essential resources, and an enabling environment supported by robust policies.

"At Emerging Public Leaders of Ghana, we firmly believe that gender equality is not just a goal but a necessity for sustainable development. Our commitment to this year’s theme is demonstrated through our Women on the Rise project, funded by Co-Impact, a key initiative supporting women’s public sector leadership," she added.

The Women on the Rise project is designed to enhance gender-responsive policies, tackle systemic challenges, and provide mentorship for the next generation of female leaders.

Speaking on behalf of the Country Director for Emerging Public Leaders of Ghana, Juliet A. Amoah, Dr Tuckson stressed that International Women’s Day should not only be celebrated but should also serve as an opportunity to take concrete steps towards empowering women and girls.

"Let us challenge outdated norms, support policies that promote gender equality, and invest in the leadership potential of women," she urged.

She further noted that Ghana’s future progress depends on the full participation of all its citizens, and that true national development can only be realised when women are given equal opportunities to lead, innovate, and inspire.