Addis Ababa:Ghanaian leaders are highlighting Ethiopia as a model for Africa, emphasizing the significant roles women hold in the government as an example of what can be achieved by involving women and youth, who together make up more than half of the continent's population.
According to Ethiopian Press Agency, Mariam Yusuf Seif, the Youth leader of Ghana's National Democratic Congress (NDC), praised Ethiopia for setting a precedent with almost half of its cabinet comprising women, many of whom occupy top positions. She described this as a positive development, suggesting that other African nations should emulate Ethiopia's approach to female leadership.
Seif further expressed that Ethiopia's progress should inspire women who have reached high positions to mentor young people, aiding them in rising through the ranks. She emphasized that mentorship could offer young individuals a substantial role in politics, urging current leaders to support emerging talents.
In Ghana, while there has been progress with more women and young people in positions of leadership, Seif noted that the existing percentage of women in political leadership remains low and called for this to be doubled. Abigail Anno, Human Resource Director at Ghana National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme, commented that although more women are joining political parties in Ghana, the ultimate goal is to achieve at least 50 percent female representation in parliament to enhance nation-building efforts.
Minister of Women and Social Affairs, Shewit Shanka, stated that Ethiopia, guided by the philosophy of Medemer, seeks to ensure equitable development benefits for all citizens, recognizing women as equal stakeholders. Since 2018, Ethiopia has made substantial progress in gender equality, with women occupying 50 percent of cabinet roles and significant representation in the House of Peoples' Representatives.
Ethiopia's commitment to gender inclusion is seen as a benchmark for other African nations to aspire to, with the objective of women equally shaping policy and driving national transformation.
