Advocates for women’s rights are urging the swift enforcement of Ghana’s new gender equity law, signed by the president on Thursday, nearly three decades after its initial proposal. The Affirmative Action (Gender Equality) Act 2024 marks the conclusion of a process that began in 1998, with the bill being debated in various parliaments until its passage in July. Many activists criticized the prolonged delay in its approval.
Ghana now aligns with other African nations like Rwanda, Uganda, and Mozambique, which have affirmative action laws that set a 30% quota for women in leadership roles across government and other sectors. The new law aims to increase women’s representation in key decision-making positions, from a minimum of 30% to 50% by 2030, in accordance with the UN’s goal of gender equality.
Trade unions are required by the law to maintain gender-balanced boards, and private companies that adhere to its provisions will receive tax incentives. Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin expressed hope that lawmakers would embrace these reforms and promote a just society where women are empowered.
The law prohibits gender-based discrimination, including verbal abuse, stereotyping, and exclusion from opportunities, with penalties such as fines and prison terms ranging from six to twelve months. Trade unions that fail to comply may lose their registered status.
Female lawmakers have praised the law as a significant step toward women’s empowerment. Abla Dzifa Gomashie, a member of parliament from southeast Ghana, expressed hope that it would help eliminate cultural, political, and economic discrimination against women and marginalized groups. She emphasized the need for immediate advocacy to educate institutions and the public about the law’s requirements.
However, some activists have raised concerns about potential challenges in enforcing the law. Dinah Adiko, a former consultant with Ghana’s gender ministry, warned that political parties might not fulfill their responsibilities under the law, and there could be weak oversight. Despite these concerns, she expressed excitement about the law’s passage.
Public criticism of the law has been minimal. At a press conference, a journalist questioned whether pursuing gender equality by favoring women could be considered discriminatory. In response, the Minister for Gender, Children, and Social Protection, Dakoa Newman, refuted the claim, stating that Ghanaian women are qualified to hold positions of power and influence.
Both of Ghana’s main political parties, the NDC and NPP, were criticized for not passing the bill earlier, despite using it as a campaign promise. Current Gender Minister Newman reintroduced the bill this year. As general elections approach in December, the new law is expected to encourage more women to run for office. The Electoral Commission is tasked with ensuring political parties meet gender quotas and increasing women’s participation in the electoral process.
