Gender Ministry holds high-level strategic retreat on implementation of Affirmative Action Act

The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection has held a successful two-day high-level strategic retreat aimed at facilitating the effective implementation of the Affirmative Action (Gender Equity) Act, 2024 (Act 1121).

The retreat, brought together members of the Ministry’s Advisory Board, Parliamentarians, members of the newly constituted Gender Equity Committee, representatives from key Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), Development Partners including UNDP Ghana, UN Women, UNICEF Ghana, and the World Food Programme, as well as civil society organisations, academia, and other key stakeholders.

Delivering the keynote address, the Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Hon. Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, emphasised that the passage of the Act in July 2024 marked a historic turning point in Ghana’s pursuit of gender equity, inclusive governance, and sustainable national development.

She noted that the Act aims to progressively increase women’s representation in decision-making spaces across both public and private sectors targeting at least 30% by 2026 and 50% by 2034.

The Minister highlighted that the Ministry has initiated steps to draft the Legislative Instrument (L.I.) for the full operationalisation of the Act, and has already distributed copies of the law to MDAs, MMDAs, security services, and other stakeholders. Infographics and awareness materials have also been developed to support advocacy and training activities across various sectors.

Day One of the retreat was dedicated to enhancing participants’ understanding of the key provisions of the Act and fostering dialogue on stakeholder roles. The Minister used the platform to congratulate and welcome the newly appointed members of the Gender Equity Committee, whose nominations had been approved by the Office of the President.

She expressed confidence in their professional expertise to drive the implementation of the Act.

Day Two focused on developing a strategic implementation framework, outlining actionable strategies, timelines, and coordination mechanisms for a nationwide rollout. It featured technical sessions, panel discussions, and working group activities.

A major highlight of the day was the swearing-in of the Gender Equity Committee by the Hon. Minister, after members had taken the Oath of Secrecy and the Oath of Office. The Committee is mandated, among other responsibilities, to advise the Minister on relevant policy issues related to the Act’s implementation.

In addition, the Ministerial Advisory Board was inaugurated in line with Section 39 of the Civil Service Act, 1993 (PNDCL 327). The Board is expected to facilitate regular engagement between the Ministry and stakeholders and advise on adjustments in policy direction and strategic planning.

Both the Gender Equity Committee and the Advisory Board are chaired by the Hon. Minister.

The Minister called for collective action in the implementation process, stating that success will depend on the coordinated efforts of government, development partners, civil society, academia, the media, and local communities.

She expressed appreciation to UN Women, UNICEF, UNDP, the World Food Programme, and the African Women Leaders Network (AWLN) Ghana Chapter for their immense support in organising the retreat.