An Open Letter To The President: The Ministry Of Gender, Children And Social Protection Needs Competent Leadership

Your Excellency,
I write to commend your dedication to gender equality in Ghana, as per SDG Goal 5, which has been reflected in your historic selection of H. E Jane Naana Opoku-Agyeman as the first woman vice president of Ghana, increased female representation in parliament from the majority caucus, and increased female representation on the list of regional ministers. These milestones signify your commitment to inclusivity and progress.

As you appoint ministers under Article 78 of the 1992 Constitution and in the spirit of fostering national development, I urge that you prioritize the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection. While this ministry holds immense potential, past leadership has done little to address its critical mandate.

The taxation of sanitary pads, classified as luxury goods, continues to exacerbate period poverty. Menstrual health education remains inadequate, and girl-child education still faces significant barriers, particularly in rural communities. Child labour, evident on farms and galamsey sites, child marriage, sexual violence and harassment further underscore the ministry’s critical role.

Your Excellency, Ghana needs a minister who combines competence with compassion. We need someone who has demonstrated staunch commitment to the welfare of women, children, and the disabled. While selecting a woman is important, it should not be the sole criterion for this appointment. We need a leader with a proven track record of addressing the issues mentioned above with integrity and innovation.

The right leadership can transform this ministry into a pillar of hope for marginalized groups. I trust in your ability to make this crucial appointment with the foresight that has characterized your tenure.

Written by
Emmanuella Kwatia
3^rd year LLB Candidate
University of Professional Studies Accra

Email: [email protected]