Former Minister for Gender, Children, and Social Protection Dakoa Newman has urged the government to urgently implement the Affirmative Action Bill to create more opportunities for women in sports.

The former Okaikwei South MP made the call while congratulating Abigail Quartey on her feat as Ghana’s first female boxing champion.

Abigail's achievement was highlighted in a documentary by JoySports' Haruna Mubarak titled Abigail Quartey: Her Gloves; Her Glory".

Abigail attributed her success to hard work, specifically four hours of daily training.

Reacting to this, Miss Newman noted that Abigail’s feat in the male-dominated sport of boxing was worthy of commendation.

“Quartey's victory significantly advances women's empowerment and gender equity in Ghana, highlighting the need for government support of women in sports.

“I urge the government to prioritize the implementation of the Affirmative Action Act, 2024, as it is expected to expand opportunities for women in sports and other disciplines," she stated. 

Gender Equity In Sports — The story of Ghana's first female world boxing champion

Abigail Kwartekaa Quartey made history on November 24, 2024, becoming the first Ghanaian woman to win a world boxing championship. She defeated Sangeeta Birdie (UK) in the World Super Bantamweight… pic.twitter.com/wnpefDZwoT

— Dakoa Newman (@DakoaNewman) February 10, 2025

The 28-year-old eased past British opponent Sangeeta Birdi with a barrage of punches and uppercuts to become the nation’s first female world titleholder and the 11th overall in Ghana’s history.

Abigail’s story is more than a personal triumph but a rallying cry to young women across Ghana. She punched her way into history as a trailblazer, having won the Women's International Boxing Federation (WIBF) belt in November.

Dakoa's tenure ensured the passage of the Affirmative Action Bill by Parliament in August 2024 to promote women’s empowerment by creating opportunities for women across all sectors.

"The first schedule of the Affirmative Action Bill calls for 30% up until it gets to a 50/50. The government implementation of that bill will be a big win for women.”