Vice President Defends Affirmative Action Law, Highlights Importance of Women in Leadership

The Vice President of Ghana, Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, has defended the country’s Affirmative Action Law and stressed the need for more women to take part in leadership and decision-making roles.

According to the Vice President, the participation of women in governance is important for shaping national policies and helping Ghana achieve sustainable development. She explained that when women are given the opportunity to lead, they bring different ideas, experiences and perspectives that help improve the country’s progress.

Her comments come after the passage of the Affirmative Action Act, which aims to ensure that women hold at least 30 percent of positions in public institutions. The law is expected to increase the number of women in leadership roles across government and other sectors.

Prof. Opoku-Agyemang said the policy is an important step toward gender equality and inclusive governance. She noted that the country stands to benefit when women are involved in decision-making at the highest levels.

Speaking in a message to mark this year’s International Women’s Day celebration, the Vice President extended her warm greetings to women and girls in Ghana and across the world. She encouraged them to remain proud of their achievements and continue contributing to national development.

“On this International Women’s Day 2026, I send heartfelt greetings to all women and girls across Ghana and around the world. Let us be proud of the resilience, achievements and essential contributions women continue to make to our nation’s progress,” she said.

She also explained that the government’s decision to ensure women occupy at least 30 percent of appointments recognises the important role women play in national development.

According to her, when women serve as ministers, head public institutions and help shape national policies, the country benefits from a wider pool of talent and knowledge. She said such inclusion helps create better solutions to national challenges and strengthens governance.

The Vice President further emphasised that gender inclusion should not only be limited to government institutions. She said other sectors of society should also make efforts to create more opportunities for women.

Prof. Opoku-Agyemang mentioned sectors such as business, academia, civil society, the creative industry and faith leadership as areas where women should be given greater opportunities to lead and contribute.

She noted that increasing women’s participation in these areas will strengthen the country’s leadership capacity and support national development.

The Vice President concluded by stating that empowering women should not be seen as doing them a favour, but rather as an important investment in the country’s future.

According to her, when women are empowered and given equal opportunities, it leads to stronger leadership, better governance and a more confident nation.