The Affirmative Action Conference, held at the Accra International Conference Centre on November 4, 2024, served as a platform for discourse on the Gender Equity law.
The event brought together prominent personalities and gender activists for a conversation that “marks a significant milestone on the collective journey towards a more just and equitable society.”
Organized by the National Gender Commission of the Graduate Students Association of Ghana (GRASAG) and the All-Africa Students Union (AASU), the conference witnessed a massive turnout.
In her welcome address, Mercy Yaa Boatemaa Appiah, National Gender Commissioner of GRASAG expressed optimism that the gathering would be impactful, shaping narratives and positively influencing lives.
While highlighting the impact of the Gender Equity law, she said: “Through setting progressive targets, this Act calls for a balanced representation across public offices, decision-making roles, and leadership positions. By 2030, we aim for equal representation of women and men across sectors, with a foundation built on fairness, opportunity, and inclusion. This is a decisive step forward, addressing the historical gender disparities that have held us back as a nation.”
“We are encouraged by the mechanisms within the Act that enforce gender-responsive budgeting, empower women in security and judicial roles, and mandate political parties and trade unions to promote gender balance in leadership. These provisions reflect Ghana’s commitment to its international obligations and set a strong precedent for achieving true equality,” she added, a remark that was corroborated by Samuel Adonteng, a representative of AASU.
In a call to action for a more equitable future, Mercy Yaa Boatemaa Appiah emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts to bring the Affirmative Action Act to life.
“We urge every stakeholder, especially educational institutions, to integrate gender equality measures and provide our future leaders with the knowledge and tools to advocate for their rights,” she said.
“We call upon government agencies and private organizations to be active collaborators, to fulfill their mandates under this Act, and to ensure a fair representation that benefits all Ghanaians. Together, let us transform this legislation into lasting change.”
The interactive sessions which featured high-profile personalities, explored strategies for implementing the Gender Equity law, empowering young women and girls, and developing impactful awareness campaigns.
Speakers at the event included:
• Sabia Kpekata, Deputy Director, Department of Gender, Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection
• Dr. Hilda Haggar Ampadu, Inspector General of Schools, National Schools Inspectorate Authority
• Lady Alma Pokua Adade-Prempeh, Chartered Global Management Accountant
• Genevieve Partington, Country Director, Amnesty International Ghana
• Becky Enyonam Ahadzi, ESQ., Coordinator, Affirmative Action Bill Coalition
• Hon. Felicia Edem Attipoe, Municipal Chief Executive, Tema West
The event was moderated by Mercy Catherine Adjabeng, Convener of the Alliance for Women in Media, with facilitation by Elizabeth Dwamena, ESQ., Lecturer, Faculty of Law, Pentecost University; Elorm Wetsi, Policy Advisor (Gender and Advocacy), All-Africa Students Union; and Daniel Owiredu, Programs Manager, Green Advocacy Ghana.
It was emceed by Abraham Norman.
The Affirmative Action (Gender Equity) Bill, introduced in 2011 and repeatedly revisited by Parliament, was finally passed unanimously on July 30, 2024, and signed into law by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo on September 19, 2024.
It encourages diversity at all levels and lays out policies and procedures to guarantee that underrepresented groups, particularly women, minorities and people who are challenged, have equal opportunities and are actively involved in decision-making at all levels of leadership in the country.
Since its enactment, the Affirmative Action Conference has been the first major event to engage in a comprehensive discourse on the subject. Several attendees remarked that the event was highly beneficial, as it shed light on the law and emphasized the importance of its implementation, among other key issues. Many described the event as a significant success.
Below are some pictures from the event:
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