Report By: Ishmael Barfi
The Board Chair of Women in Law & Development in Africa (WiLDAF) Ghana, Hajia Mariam Iddrisu, has emphasized the importance of implementing the Affirmative Action Act to achieve gender equality in Ghana.
In an interview with The New Independent during the WiLDAF Annual General Meeting held on 15th October, 2025, in Accra, Hajia Mariam expressed concerns about the law’s implementation, citing Ghana’s track record of passing beautiful policies that often gather dust.
Hajia Mariam noted that despite Ghana signing up to various international treaties and conventions promoting gender equality, the country has failed to implement them effectively.
She questioned the current representation of women in key positions, including parliament, local government, and cabinet appointments.
The Gender Ministry has set up a committee to oversee the implementation of the Act and has outlined sanctions for non-compliance. However, Hajia Mariam expressed disappointment that political sanctions for non-compliance were not included, suggesting that this should be revisited.
Hajia Mariam identified systemic barriers and cultural stereotypes as major obstacles to women’s participation in decision-making. And emphasized the need to address these challenges and build the capacities of girls and women through mentorship, coaching, and leadership development.
To promote gender equality, Hajia Mariam stressed the importance of integrating leadership development and mentorship programs into the education curriculum, starting from the basic levels.
This, she believes, will help build the confidence and self-esteem of girls and women, enabling them to take on leadership roles in the future.
Source: www.thenewindependentonline.com
