The Vice-President, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, has appealed for collective responsibility in the implementation of the Affirmative Action (Gender Equality) Act, 2024 (Act 1121), stressing that the success of the Act cannot rest solely on the government.
“Everyone, from local government assemblies to the private sector, must contribute to making this a success.
This is not a challenge government can undertake alone.
The success of the Affirmative Action Act, the broader Reset Ghana agenda, and the 24-hour economy depends on our collective effort,” she said.
The Vice-President stressed the need for unity across sectors and communities to achieve the desired affirmative action goals.
She made the statement through her Policy Advisor on Social Sector, Dr Miriam Rahinatu, at the launch of an implementation programme for the Affirmative Action Act as part of this year’s Africa Women’s Day celebration last Thursday.
The African Women’s Day is observed annually on July 31, with this year’s event held on the theme: “Leading with Purpose: Advancing Gender Equality through Strategic Implementation of the Affirmative Action Act”.
The event brought together key stakeholders from various sectors, including government, Parliament, the judiciary, civil society, development partners, traditional authorities, and the diplomatic community.
Present were the chief Director at the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, Dr Afisah Zakariah ; the Member of Parliament(MP) for Ada constituency and President of the Women’s Caucus of Parliament, Comfort Doyoe Cudjoe-Ghansah; MP for Kintampo South , Felicia Adjei ; MP Dormaa East, Rachel Amma Owusuah,MP for Krachi West constituency, Helen Adjoa Ntoso.
National commitment
Vice President Opoku-Agyemang emphasised that the Act was a national commitment to justice, fairness and equal opportunity, stating that the legislation aligned with the country’s broader vision for a 24-hour economy, aimed at unlocking opportunities, modernising services, and creating decent jobs.
“This Act is not just a legal instrument. It is a testament to years of advocacy, resilience and leadership.
It reflects the relentless efforts of civil society, bipartisan collaboration, both within and outside of Parliament, and the courage of women across generations who refused to remain invisible,” she added.
Beyond the legislation, the Vice President also stated that the government would also invest in strengthening institutional capacity, raise public awareness, and establish effective monitoring and accountability systems to ensure full implementation.
Beneficiaries
Addressing young women and girls , Prof. Opoku-Agyemang said , “This law was made with you in mind. It tells you that your voice matters, your dreams are valid, and your country is creating space for your leadership.”
Mandate
The Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Dr Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, said that her ministry was mandated to promote gender equality through gender-sensitive policies and social protection interventions for the vulnerable—critical roles in advancing national development.
She also announced the establishment of the Gender Equity Committee, created under the new law to guide and monitor its implementation.
“The Act would position Ghana as a regional leader in gender equality and inclusive governance,” she added.
The Vice-President expressed gratitude to civil society organisations, gender advocates, lawmakers and community leaders who championed the bill’s passage over the years.
She paid special tribute to the Vice-President, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang, celebrating her historic role and Ghana’s strides in women’s empowerment.
The United Nations Resident Coordinator, Zia Choudhury, affirmed the UN’s continued partnership to help translate the ambitions of the Affirmative Action Act into real improvements in the lives of women and girls.
