The Deputy Minister for Transport, Dorcas Affo-Toffey, has called for a stronger national commitment to gender equality, emphasising that empowering women and girls is essential to building a more inclusive, safe, and prosperous Ghana.

She made the remarks during the International Women’s Day 2026 commemoration on Wednesday, 11 March, at the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC) in Accra.

Addressing participants under the theme “Investing in Gender Equality for a More Inclusive and Safer Ghana for All,” Mrs Affo-Toffey stressed that pursuing gender equality goes beyond fairness and human rights, describing it as a strategic investment in national development and stability.

“This year’s reflections remind us of a powerful principle: ‘Give to Gain’. When societies give women and girls equal opportunities through education, protection, and support, the entire nation benefits,” she said.

Highlighting women’s contributions across sectors such as entrepreneurship, education, agriculture, public service, and transportation, she praised their resilience, leadership, and innovation, noting that their involvement remains indispensable to the country’s progress.

However, she acknowledged persistent barriers that hinder the full participation of women and girls, including unequal access to economic opportunities, underrepresentation in leadership, gender-based discrimination, and harmful cultural practices.

“As we educate ourselves and our communities about gender equality, we must also confront and challenge cultural norms that undermine the dignity, safety, and rights of women and girls,” she said, adding that gender equality ultimately benefits everyone, enabling men, women, boys, and girls to realise their full potential.

Focusing on the transport sector, the Deputy Minister emphasised that accessible and reliable transport is crucial in enabling women and girls to pursue education, participate in economic activities, and access healthcare.

She urged the development of gender-responsive transport systems that address mobility and safety needs.

Current efforts within the sector, she noted, include promoting greater participation of women in leadership, technical, and operational roles, and improving safety standards in public transport to protect women and other vulnerable groups.

Mrs Affo-Toffey also highlighted initiatives to create opportunities for young women interested in logistics, engineering, aviation, and maritime careers through training and capacity-building programmes.

Reaffirming government commitment to gender equality, she cited the Affirmative Action (Gender Equality) Act and the National Gender Policy as key instruments for removing systemic barriers.

She stressed that achieving progress requires collaboration across sectors, commending organisations such as the Ghana Armed Forces and KAIPTC for integrating gender perspectives into their operations.

She further acknowledged international and development partners, including UN Women and GIZ, for supporting gender-focused programmes, and highlighted the role of youth and educational institutions, including the Ghana Education Service and National Youth Authority, in empowering young people through education, mentorship, and leadership development.

“Achieving gender equality is not solely the responsibility of women; it requires both men and women working together. We must challenge stereotypes, promote respect, and actively support policies that foster inclusive societies,” she said.

Concluding her address, Mrs Affo-Toffey urged stakeholders to renew their commitment to building a society where opportunities are accessible to all citizens, regardless of gender.

“Together, let us continue to work towards a future where equality is not just an aspiration, but a lived reality for every Ghanaian,” she said.