In Ghana, the Affirmative Action Bill, pending in Parliament since 2011, is on the cusp of becoming law. The Bill's progression has reached a critical point, with its passage now a prerequisite for the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to release specific funds to the nation. This development was highlighted during a public engagement by the Forum for African Women Educationists (FAWE) Ghana Chapter, focusing on contemporary challenges faced by girls.
According to Ghana News Agency, the Convenor of the Affirmative Action Coalition, the Bill's enactment is anticipated to significantly benefit women and girls, particularly in governance and leadership roles. She emphasized the need to amend existing legislations to enhance female representation in various sectors. Currently, women's participation in significant leadership positions in Ghana, including in Parliament and the Economic Management team, is notably low. Minkah-Premo pointed out that out of 275 Parliament members, only 40 are women, a mere 14.5%. Furthermore, a significant portion of companies listed on the Ghana Stock Exchange have minimal or no female representation on their boards.
The gender advocate highlighted several challenges hindering women's empowerment in Ghana, including forced early marriages, teenage pregnancies, and limited access to financial resources. Gender-based violence was also identified as a critical issue that requires more stringent laws for the protection of women and girls. Ms Minkah-Premo noted the inadequacies of the current Domestic Violence Act, specifically its implementation by the police force.
Ms Mamley Andrews, Chief Director of the Ministry of Education (MOE), outlined the Ministry's efforts to promote gender equality in education. The MOE is revising its Gender in Education policy and implementing initiatives to reduce gender-based violence in schools. Andrews also emphasized the importance of promoting Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET) and STEM education among girls and women.
The event also served as a platform for the induction of new executives for the FAWE Ghana Chapter, with Mrs Marian Tackie being appointed as the Chairperson of the executive board. FAWE is a key pan-African NGO focusing on advocating gender-responsive educational policies for girls in Africa.