Ghana's Vice President, Prof Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, has emphasised that empowering women is not an act of charity but a strategic investment in stronger governance and national development.

In a message posted on Facebook to mark International Women’s Day on Sunday, 8 March 2026, the Vice President extended greetings to women and girls in Ghana and across the world while highlighting their enduring role in national progress.

“On this International Women’s Day 2026, I send heartfelt greetings to all women and girls across Ghana and around the world. Let us be proud of the resilience, achievements, and essential contributions women continue to make to our nation's progress,” she wrote.

The Vice President pointed to Ghana’s national theme for this year’s celebration, “Giving to Gain,” noting that the principle is already being demonstrated through deliberate efforts to increase women’s participation in governance.

“In Ghana, the theme ‘Giving to Gain’ is already demonstrated through concrete actions,” she stated.

According to her, the policy direction to ensure that women occupy at least 30 per cent of government appointments reflects the importance of inclusive leadership in national development.

“The intentional effort to ensure women make up at least 30% of government appointments recognises a simple truth about national development: when women serve as ministers, lead key public institutions, and help shape policy at the highest levels, the country benefits from a broader range of talent and perspective,” she said.

Beyond government, the Vice President stressed that expanding opportunities for women across all sectors of society strengthens the country’s leadership base and national capacity.

“But the principle goes beyond government institutions,” she explained.

“In business, academia, civil society, the creative industries, faith leadership, and other sectors, expanding opportunities for women enhances our national life and increases the pool of leadership that we rely on.”

She concluded by emphasising that empowering women is fundamental to building a stronger nation.

“Empowering women is not just a favour; it is a strategic investment in better governance and a more confident Ghana.”

The Vice President ended her message with a simple note of celebration: “Happy International Women’s Day.”