The Vice President, Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, has underscored the importance of women’s participation in governance, stating that their inclusion in leadership roles is vital for shaping national policies and advancing Ghana’s development.

Her remarks come in the wake of the passage of the Affirmative Action Act, which seeks to ensure that women occupy at least 30 per cent of positions in public institutions.

The Vice President emphasised that increasing women’s representation in decision-making spaces allows the country to benefit from a wider range of ideas, experiences and perspectives necessary for sustainable development.

She also noted that Ghana’s theme for this year’s International Women’s Day, “Giving to Gain,” reflects the country’s commitment to promoting gender inclusion through deliberate policy choices and leadership appointments.

In a message marking the 2026 celebration, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang extended her greetings to women and girls in Ghana and across the world.

“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 said.

She further explained that the government’s commitment to ensuring women occupy at least 30 per cent of appointments recognises the value they bring to leadership.

“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 perspectives,” she added.

The Vice President also stressed that the principle of gender inclusion should extend beyond government institutions to other sectors of national life.

“But the principle goes beyond government institutions. In business, academia, civil society, the creative industries, faith leadership and other sectors, expanding opportunities for women enhances our national life. It increases the pool of leadership that we rely on,” she noted.

According to her, empowering women should be viewed as a strategic investment in the country’s progress.

“Empowering women is not just a favour; it is a strategic investment in better governance and a more confident Ghana. Happy International Women’s Day,” she concluded.