body-container-line-1

Women need at least six months maternity leave to heal, cater for kids — Gender Minister-Designate Momo Lartey

Social News Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, the ministerial nominee for Gender, Children, and Social Protection
WED, 22 JAN 2025
Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, the ministerial nominee for Gender, Children, and Social Protection

Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, the ministerial nominee for Gender, Children and Social Protection has revealed her commitment to champion improved maternity leave policies in the country.

During her vetting session in Parliament on Wednesday, January 22, she highlighted the essence of supporting women during the postpartum period to ensure both their health and that of their children.

She expressed, “It is important for women to have a prolonged leave period, not only to take care of the children but also to properly heal.”

She added, “As an employer, I will encourage you that if you even have the opportunity to grant six months leave, please do that.”

Recognizing the importance of stakeholder engagement, Naa Momo Lartey has pledged to work collaboratively to push for reforms.

“I will sit with all stakeholders, CSOs who are deep into it, and I will join the many advocates to look at what is best and ensure that we push it. If the people of Ghana agree to it, then I will be the number one champion,” she assured.

Some activists contend that the minimum 12-week (three-month) maternity leave offered by Ghanaian law to working mothers is insufficient for the physical recovery and bonding needed during the first few months of motherhood.

On the other hand, nations like Kenya and South Africa provide 14 and 16 weeks of maternity leave, respectively, with growing global advocacy to meet the International Labour Organization's minimum recommendation of 14 weeks.

Gideon Afful Amoako
Gideon Afful Amoako

A journalist passionate about social issues, politics and current affairs.Page: gideon-afful-amoako

Follow our WhatsApp channel for meaningful stories picked for your day.

Should the Free SHS policy be reviewed?

Started: 10-01-2025 | Ends: 31-03-2025

body-container-line