Ghana Olympic Committee Elections Highlight Gender Representation Gap

Mrs. Joyce Mahama, President of the African Women in Sports Association (AWISA) and the Women’s Sports Association of Ghana (WOSPAG), has called for greater inclusion of women in leadership roles within Ghana’s sports governance ahead of the Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC) Elective Congress on Saturday.

Speaking during a GH One TV special program organized by the EIB Media Network, Mahama expressed concern that only three women are among the 30 candidates vying for executive positions, falling short of the 30% representation benchmark often advocated for gender parity.

“It is time for women to step into roles as presidents, secretaries, or treasurers—not just serve tea in the background,” Mahama stated. “I am deeply saddened that our female candidates are so few. Women must be included in decision-making to ensure diverse perspectives shape Ghana’s sports future.”

The three women candidates include Delphina Quaye and Rafatu Inusah, both contesting seats on the GOC Executive Board, and Aurora Commodore Toppar, who is running for Assistant Treasurer. Their bids come amid broader discussions about gender equity in African sports leadership, where women remain underrepresented despite incremental progress.

Mahama also addressed recent reports of violence against women in sports, emphasizing AWISA’s commitment to creating safer environments for female athletes. She revealed plans to champion this cause at an upcoming AWISA event in Mauritius this May, where she will deliver a keynote speech on empowerment and protection mechanisms.

The GOC presidential race features two male candidates: Richard Akpokavie, former Secretary General of Ghana Hockey, and Michael Aggrey, Secretary General of the African Golf Confederation. Mahama acknowledged their contributions but stressed the need for systemic change to elevate women’s voices.

EIB Media Network and the GOC Communications Department received praise for platforming the issue, with Mahama urging delegates to “respect, protect, and support” women in sports.

Ghana’s sports landscape mirrors global trends, where women hold fewer than 20% of leadership roles in national Olympic committees, according to a 2024 International Olympic Committee report. Analysts note that cultural biases and limited funding for women’s sports often hinder progress. Mahama’s appeal underscores a pivotal moment for Ghana to align with international standards on gender inclusion, leveraging leadership diversity to drive holistic growth in athletics.

As delegates prepare to vote, the election’s outcome will signal whether Ghana’s sports governance prioritizes inclusivity or perpetuates longstanding gender disparities. For advocates like Mahama, the stakes extend beyond titles they represent a chance to redefine opportunity for future generations of Ghanaian women in sports.