President John Mahama has called on African governments and partners to prioritise investment in women, describing it as a critical driver of national and continental development.

Addressing the National Assembly of the Republic of Zambia on Thursday, February 5, 2026, President Mahama said Africa could not afford to treat gender inclusion as a symbolic gesture, stressing that deliberate financial and economic empowerment of women was essential for sustainable growth.

He highlighted steps taken by his government to translate commitments into action.

"Ghana has moved beyond symbolism to action. We have elected our first female Vice President and operationalised the Affirmative Action (Gender Equity) Act, mandating a minimum of 30 per cent female representation in public appointments," he said.

President Mahama further announced that Ghana’s Reset Agenda includes plans to establish a Women’s Development Bank aimed at unlocking financing for female-led enterprises, noting that access to capital remains a major barrier for women across the continent.

He urged African leaders to collectively push forward the Decade of African Women’s Financial and Economic Inclusion, arguing that empowering women accelerates productivity, strengthens families, and boosts national economies.

"I urge us to advance together toward the Decade of African Women’s Financial and Economic Inclusion. When we invest in women, we accelerate national development."

Touching on broader continental integration, President Mahama said the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) presents a historic opportunity to deepen intra-African trade, promote value addition, and drive industrialisation.

He reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to working closely with Zambia to reduce trade barriers, harmonise standards, and encourage private-sector partnerships.

"Our people are the true custodians of this partnership. The presence of Ghanaians in Zambia and Zambians in Ghana enriches both societies," President Mahama said.