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President Nana Akufo-Addo says his administration will undertake initiatives that will empower Ghanaian women to achieve their full potential. The President said his government has already started rolling out some social intervention programmes that will empower women, and make their lives better.

Speaking at the Ministry of Gender, Women and Social Protection as part of activities to mark International Women’s Day on Wednesday, the President said Ghana will be a better place if “our women are protected and empowered.

“As you all know, this year, the free SHS policy will come on and this will help women. The NPP has put in place programmes and policies that will make life better for the Ghanaian woman. You have a strong and dedicated Minister who is always talking about the rights of women. If she continues this way, I am sure Ghanaian women will be better.” Meanwhile, the First Lady, Rebecca Akufo-Addo, has pledged to advocate for an increase in women participation in politics.

This she says would help in mainstreaming gender issues whilst promoting women empowerment and equality. Speaking at a ceremony to mark the International Women’s day celebration, the First Lady bemoaned the low level of women participation especially in decision making, thus her resolve to use her influence to improve the situation. “The world economic forum predicts the gender gap won’t close entirely until 2186. But we cannot wait that long. That is why the idea of being bold for change is so important.

We need more female voices in politics and policy making. We need more female voices in academia, industry, business, finance, agriculture, the arts and many more areas. It’s going to be an arduous battle, but I believe we are up to it.”