Ghana’s Minister for Gender, Children, and Social Protection, Dakoa Newman, has clarified that the recently passed Affirmative Action Bill has yet to be submitted to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo for final approval.
The bill, which aims to mandate progressive targets for gender equity in public office and governance, was successfully passed by Ghana’s Parliament on July 30, 2024.
The legislation addresses various socio-cultural, political, economic, and educational imbalances and will be implemented in the public and private sectors.
The goal is to achieve 30% gender equity by 2026, with a target of 40% between 2026 and 2028, and to reach 50% parity by 2030, which aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals.
Despite its passage, the bill has yet to reach the President’s desk, as it is still undergoing legal framework processes.
In a recent press briefing, Minister Newman emphasized that the delay is due to necessary administrative procedures and not the President’s reluctance.
“The bill is still being processed, and it will take some time to reach the President.
It is not yet with him for signature,” Newman explained. She assured the public that President Akufo-Addo would sign the bill as soon as it was formally submitted.
Civil society groups, including SEND Ghana, have called for the President to expedite the bill’s signing. Siapha Kamara, Chief Executive Officer of SEND Ghana, has hailed the bill’s passage as a significant milestone for gender equality in Ghana.
He emphasized that the bill is not just a piece of legislation but a powerful tool for empowering women and improving their representation in leadership roles.
Kamara remarked, “The passage of the bill is a game changer. It is essential for breaking down barriers that have long hindered women’s participation in decision-making roles.”
As Ghana awaits the final step in the legislative process, the focus remains on ensuring the effective implementation of the Affirmative Action Bill and its potential to drive meaningful progress toward gender equity.
