President Akufo-Addo reaffirms commitment to gender equity

By Emmanuel AKOMEA

President Akufo-Addo has reaffirmed government’s commitment to promoting gender equity and women’s empowerment at the African Women’s Leaders Network (AWLN) Ghana chapter’s awards and fundraising dinner.

In a speech read on his behalf by the Presidential Advisor on Gender and Development, Dr. Angela Asante–Essah, he stated: “Passing the affirmative action bill is one action that I consider as my legacy to this country”.

President Akufo-Addo noted that it is encouraging to observe the rising enrollment of girls at all educational levels, from basic to senior high and tertiary institutions.

He added that education is widely recognised as a critical factor in enabling women to transform their lives, lifting them out of poverty and enhancing their productive capacities.

He indicated that it is gratifying to acknowledge the progress made so far in closing the gender gap in education. He commended the role of civil society organisations (CSOs) in advocating for girls’ right to education.

However, President Akufo-Addo acknowledged that more work must be done, particularly at the tertiary level, to close the gender gap. He commended the gender champions being honoured at the event for breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations of women and girls.

The president praised the network’s efforts, stating that its vision “seamlessly aligns with our national goals” to enhance women’s roles in governance, economic empowerment, peace and security, and social mobilisation.

“As we honour these trailblazers tonight, let us remember the legacies of these many  influential women who have paved the way for gender equity and national development,” he said.

The African Women Leaders Network (AWLN) Ghana Chapter hosted an awards ceremony and fundraising dinner celebrating the achievements of women leaders in the country, under the theme ‘One Vision, Many Voices: Celebrating Our Gender Champions’.

Established as the 31st member of the Pan African Network on November 9, 2022, the Ghana Chapter has made significant strides in mobilising mature and young women to lead transformative initiatives within their communities.

A key focus of the chapter is bridging the intergenerational gap between seasoned women leaders and young aspirants, ensuring sustainability in the fight for gender equity.

Highlighting recent accomplishments, the Chairperson of AWLN-Ghana Chapter, Dr. Charity Binkah, announced the successful launch of AWLN Young Women’s Parliament, which showcased a cohort of vibrant young women who passionately debated developmental issues and proposed innovative solutions.

AWLN was born from a historic collaboration between the African Union and United Nations, embodying a unified commitment to elevating women’s leadership across Africa.

Since its inception in June 2017, AWLN has remained steadfast in its mission – rooted in the principles of Africa Agenda 2063 and the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

“This awards ceremony is one of AWLN Ghana’s innovations designed to commemorate African Women’s Day and recognise the contributions of women to our continent’s development,” Dr. Binka noted.

She emphasised that acknowledging these remarkable individuals can inspire both men and women to continue striving for gender equity.
The evening ended in honouring outstanding women who have broken barriers and paved the way for future generations.

Among the individuals honoured at the ceremony were Dr. Delese Mimi Darko; Ms. Awa Ndiaye Seck; Ms. Hanna Serwaa Tetteh; Ms. Benita Diop; Hon. Ursula Owusu-Ekuful; ACP Owusuwaa Kyeremeh ESQ; and Lawyer Betty Mould-Iddrisu.

Others are Ms. Dorcas Coker-Appiah; Ms. Angela Dwamena Aboagye; Dr. Mary Chinery-Hesse; Ing. Patricia Obo-Nai; Ms. Ethel Cofie; Prof. Afua A.J. Hesse; Dr. Joyce Aryee; Her Ladyship Justice Georgina Wood; Hon. Alban Bagbin; Prof. Florence Abena Dolphyne; Dr. Maxine Houinato; Madam Elizabeth Akpalu; Madam Angela Asante, Yelzoli Gaa-Naa.

The rest include individuals like the Board Chair of Business and Financial Times, Dr. Edith Dankwah; GBC’s Prof. Amin Alhasan; Dr. Siaw Adjepong; German Ambassador to Ghana, Daniel Krull; and Director-General, Ghana Standards Authority, Prof. Alexander Dodoo.

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