President Akufo-Addo has officially signed the Affirmative Action Gender Equity Bill 2024 into law.

The bill, which was passed by Parliament in July, addresses the long-standing social, cultural, economic, and political gender imbalances in Ghana, largely stemming from historical discrimination against women and entrenched patriarchal systems.

The newly enacted law seeks to promote gender equity across both public and private sectors, aiming to provide more opportunities for women and underrepresented groups.

Minister of Gender, Children, and Social Protection, Dakoa Newman, shared the news on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “Update: President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo @NAkufoAddo has assented to the Affirmative Action (Gender Equity) Act, 2024. Next Step: Implementation.”

Initially introduced in 2016, the Affirmative Action Bill is designed to enhance women’s participation in governance and decision-making in Ghana, ensuring fair representation in leadership. The bill aligns with global frameworks such as the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) and the African Charter on Human Rights. It sets ambitious gender representation targets: 30% by 2026, 35% by 2028, and 50% by 2030, which will apply to appointments in public offices and leadership roles.

Currently, women account for 51.2% of Ghana’s population but occupy only 13.8% of parliamentary seats, with less than 30% holding key leadership positions. In local government, women make up just 4.1% of assembly members. The law also mandates gender-responsive budgeting and holds political parties accountable for meeting gender equality targets under the supervision of the Electoral Commission.

In addition to governance, the law emphasizes equal access to education, directing the Ministry of Education to ensure that girls receive the necessary support to succeed and overcome barriers.