Accra, Ghana – March 28, 2025 – The National Dialogue on Affirmative Action, hosted by Glitz Africa, brought together high-profile dignitaries, government officials, and advocates to amplify calls for the swift passage and implementation of Ghana’s long-overdue Affirmative Action Law.
The discussions underscored the urgent need for gender equity in leadership and governance, emphasizing that the time for action is now.
The Affirmative Action Law, first proposed over a decade ago, aims to address gender disparities in decision-making roles. Ghana currently lags behind in women’s political representation, with only 14.5% of parliamentary seats held by women, far below the African Union’s target of 50% gender parity.
Speaking at the event, Ghana’s Minister for Gender, Children, and Social Protection, Hon. Dr. Agnes Naa Momo emphasized that the Affirmative Action Law is a corrective measure, ensuring that women have a fair shot at leadership.
“This law is not just about increasing numbers; it is about equity and fairness,” she stated. “It will be assessed regularly, and we are working to ensure that all organizations understand its requirements and the need for its full implementation.”
She also urged private institutions to take initiative, noting that gender equity must be a collective effort beyond just government policy.
Norway’s Ambassador to Ghana, Ambassador Ingrid Mollestad also contributed to the dialogue, highlighting the Female Future Program in Ghana, an initiative supported by Norway that equips women with leadership, public speaking, and boardroom skills.
“We need more female leaders in business, in government, and across all sectors—even in Norway,” she said. She also stressed the importance of protecting women’s rights globally, particularly in areas of sexual and reproductive health, warning that women’s rights are under increasing attack worldwide.
Founder of Glitz Africa, Claudia Lumor, and host of the event, expressed hope that this dialogue would mark the beginning of tangible action towards passing the Affirmative Action Law.
“This conversation cannot end here. We need to move beyond talk and start implementing policies that ensure women have equal opportunities in leadership,” she stated.
Ghana remains behind regional counterparts such as Rwanda, where women hold 61% of parliamentary seats, the highest in the world. With Ghana’s next elections approaching, advocates insist that now is the time for action.
The dialogue concluded with a resounding call for legislators to prioritize the law, for organizations to commit to gender equity, and for society to recognize that women’s leadership is not just a policy issue but an economic and developmental necessity.
