Shiela Minkah-Premo, Convener of the Affirmative Action Bill Coalition, has underscored the critical need for rigorous monitoring to ensure the effectiveness of the Affirmative Action Gender Equity Bill 2024, recently passed by Parliament on July 30.
The bill sets ambitious targets for gender representation in key decision-making roles, aiming for 30% representation by 2026, increasing to 40% by 2028, and ultimately aligning with the Sustainable Development Goal 7 target of 50% by 2030 across both public and private sectors.
Recognizing the challenges posed by traditional and cultural beliefs, Minkah-Premo emphasized the importance of extensive education and sensitization efforts.
She stated, “We need to educate and sensitize communities where beliefs persist that limit women’s opportunities, reinforcing that women can excel in various fields beyond traditional roles.”
Minkah-Premo highlighted the role of the Gender Equity Committee within the Gender Ministry in overseeing the bill’s implementation.
“The committee will need to establish baselines across sectors—Parliament, cabinet ministries, judiciary, among others—and annually assess progress towards the set targets,” she explained. She added that regular reporting and measurement will be crucial to tracking achievements and addressing gaps.
Additionally, she stressed the necessity of developing a register of qualified women capable of filling roles in sectors requiring specific expertise. She believes this will facilitate the proactive placement of women in leadership positions as envisioned by the bill.
The passage of the Affirmative Action Gender Equity Bill marks a significant milestone in Ghana’s pursuit of gender equality. The bill aims to rectify socio-cultural, political, economic, and educational imbalances.
Having traversed numerous parliamentary sessions under the Fourth Republic, the bill is poised to catalyze transformative change towards a more inclusive and equitable society.
As Ghana prepares to operationalize the bill, stakeholders are called upon to collaborate closely to ensure its robust implementation and to uphold its aspirations of gender parity and empowerment.
