Parliament passes Affirmative Action, Gender Equality Bill into Law

Ghana’s Parliament has finally passed the Affirmative Action, Gender Equality Bill 2024 after several years.

The bill is to effectively address the social, cultural, economic, and political gender imbalances in the country stemming from historical discrimination against women and persistent patriarchal socio-cultural systems and norms.

This bill also seeks to ensure gender equality in both the public and private sectors.

The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, commenting on the passage, said, “Honourable members the ‘ayes’ have it. The Affirmative Action Gender Equality Bill 2024 now the Affirmative Action Gender Equity Act duly read the third time and passed”.

Meanwhile, Haruna Iddrisu who represents the people of Tamale South, expressed dissatisfaction about the bill.

The former Minority leader voiced his concerns while speaking at the 15th MTN Pulse Africa Transform Summit in Kumasi.

To him, women should not only aspire but also manage their aspirations.

Nuong Falon who has been an advocate for the Affirmative Action in a post shared via social media said “Today marks a historic milestone in Ghana’s journey towards gender equality as Parliament has finally passed the Affirmative Action Bill.

This achievement is a testament to the relentless efforts of Ghanaian activists who have been advocating for this legislation for years. (Proud to say I was one of them).

We organized campaigns, held educational workshops, engaged in dialogues with policymakers, walked in Accra, walked in Tamale, petitioned both parliament and the presidency, mobilized communities to raise awareness about the importance of affirmative action etc etc.

The work started long before my involvement and will continue after us.

Despite this significant victory, the work is far from over. The implementation of the bill will require continued vigilance to ensure that its provisions are effectively put into practice. Activists must now focus on monitoring compliance, addressing potential challenges, and pushing for further reforms that promote gender equality in all sectors. While today’s success is a cause for celebration, it is also a reminder of the ongoing struggle for a truly equitable society.

And now dear reader I ask you a critical question: WHAT ARE YOU DOING FOR THE NEXT GENERATION?

The women before us fought to normalize education for the girl child. Today, some have fought for Affirmative Action, what will be YOUR personal contribution to the situation of the African woman?

ALUTA CONTINUA !!”