The Member of parliament for the Atwima-Nwabiagya South constituency, Mr Emmanuel Adjei Anhwere has stated that promoting gender equity is not a favour to women, rather, an investment in humanity.
He said this noting the importance of the Affirmative Action Act.
“As we champion this course, let us do so with the understanding that promoting gender equity is not a favour to women. It is an investment in humanity. It is the key to building a future where every person regardless of gender, can dream, aspire and achieve without limitation,” he stated.
Mr Emmanuel Adjei Anhwere made the statement at the 2024 Annual Summit by the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection (MoGCSP) in collaboration with its partners and sponsors, UNICEF, World Bank, WFP, UNDP, UNFPA, World Vision International, Plan International, International Needs, Children Believe and Compassion International, commemorated in Accra.
Dubbed, “Promoting Equality and Inclusive Development through the Affirmative Action (Gender Equity) Act, 2024”, the summit brought all stakeholders on board to address enduring disparities in political, economic, educational, and social participation, particularly for marginalized groups including women, children (especially girls), and persons with disabilities.
Through discussions, reports, and collaborative sessions, the 2-day summit still ongoing seeks to explore strategies for implementing the Affirmative Action Act, 2024, a transformative piece of legislation designed to promote equity and inclusion across Ghana’s public and private sectors.
It also seeks to raise public awareness of the Act’s significance, highlight strategies to actively integrate marginalized groups into leadership and decision-making roles, and emphasize collaboration between government, civil society, and the private sector in fostering inclusive growth and sustainable development.
At the event, the Ministry also marked the 2024 World Children’s Day under the national theme, “Our Future, Our Voice: Listening to A Future for Affirmative Action”.
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Speaking at the summit, Mr Emmanuel Adjei Anhwere, who is also the Chairman of the Employment, Social Welfare and Pension Committee of parliament was of the view that the Affirmative Action Act 2024 is more than just a legislative milestone, it is a bold testament to our collective to fairness, equity and inclusive development.
He was of the belief that inclusive development was not just a moral imperative, rather an economic necessity.
“Studies repeatedly show that when women are empowered and given equal opportunities, economies thrive and societies become more resilient. By Actively involving women in decision making processes, and creating pathways for equitable participation, we unlock potential and foster a culture of innovation and collaboration that benefits us all,” he stated.
Again, he said,”Let us be reminded that the success of this Act does not rest solely on its enactment, it requires our collective action, our unwavering vigilance, and our shared responsibility to break down stereotypes, challenge discriminatory practices and uphold the principles of equality in every aspect of our lives.”
He urged all stakeholders to work together towards the Ghana where equality is not an aspiration but a lived reality.
“With the Affirmative Action Act as our guiding framework, we can and will build a nation that truly reflects the dignity, potential and wealth of all its people,” he added.
Ghana | Atinkaonline.com | Porcia Oforiwaa Ofori
