International Women’s Day: Veep Pushes for Women’s Leadership
The Vice President, Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, has called for greater inclusion of women in leadership, saying Ghana’s development would improve when more women take part in decision-making at all levels.
In a message to mark International Women’s Day 2026, the Vice President extended greetings to women and girls across Ghana and around the world, praising their resilience and contributions to national progress.
She said the country’s efforts to promote gender inclusion were already being demonstrated through government policy, particularly the move to ensure that women make up at least 30 per cent of government appointments.
According to her, the decision reflected a growing understanding that national development benefited when women were given the opportunity to serve in leadership roles.
“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 perspective,” she said.
The Vice President noted that women have consistently contributed to Ghana’s growth despite facing structural barriers in many sectors.
She said increasing their participation in leadership was not only about fairness but also about strengthening governance and national development. She explained that empowering women should be seen as an investment in the country’s future rather than a favour.
Professor Opoku-Agyemang added that the benefits of women’s leadership extend beyond government institutions. She said sectors such as business, academia, civil society, the creative industry, and faith leadership all stand to gain when more women are given opportunities to lead.
Expanding opportunities for women, she said, will increase the country’s leadership pool and bring new ideas and perspectives that can help address national challenges.
The Vice President also encouraged young girls to remain confident in their abilities and continue striving for excellence in education and leadership.
She said the theme adopted in Ghana for this year’s celebration, “Giving to Gain,” reflects the belief that creating space for women ultimately strengthens the entire nation.
“As a country, when we open doors for women and support their participation, we gain stronger, more confident Ghana,” she said.
International Women’s Day is celebrated each year on March 8 to honour the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women while drawing attention to challenges that still limit their full participation in society.
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