The Minister nominee for Gender, Children, and Social Protection, Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, has pledged her commitment to advocating for an extension of the current maternity leave policy, should she be approved.

She expressed her readiness to work closely with relevant stakeholders to push for an extension of the existing three-month maternity leave. She made this statement during her appearance before the Appointments Committee in Parliament on Wednesday, January 22.

Madam Lartey highlighted that extending maternity leave would benefit both mothers and their newborn babies, ensuring their well-being during a crucial period.

“It is important for women to have a prolonged leave period, not only to take care of the children but also to properly heal. As an employer, I will encourage you that if you even have the opportunity to grant six months of leave, please do that,” she said.

The nominee also revealed plans to explore the introduction of a paternity leave policy, aiming to promote fairness in care-giving responsibilities.

“I will sit with all stakeholders, including CSOs who are deeply involved, and I will join the many advocates to look at what is best and ensure that we push it. If the people of Ghana agree to it, then I will be the number one champion,” she declared.

In the lead-up to the 2024 election, President John Dramani Mahama had promised to extend maternity leave by one month if re-elected. Additionally, he pledged to introduce a week-long paternity leave for fathers to support mothers during the early stages of parenthood.

Currently, mothers in Ghana are entitled to three months of maternity leave. However, President Mahama has argued that this period is insufficient to accommodate the full range of needs during the early stages of parenting.

Since his victory in the December 7 elections, President Mahama has not yet announced specific details regarding the proposed policy changes.