Deputy Majority Leader Patricia Appiagyei has expressed her enthusiasm at the passage of the Affirmative Action (Gender Equity) Bill into law, stressing the importance of this legislation in addressing gender disparities.
Parliament, in a landmark decision, passed the Affirmative Action Bill into an Act on Tuesday, marking a significant step toward gender equity in the country.
Addressing the media after the bill’s passage, the Deputy leader noted the significance of the bill, termed the Gender Equity Act.
“We’ve been able to pass the Affirmative Action Bill into law,” she announced, adding that the inclusion of “equity” underscores the need to address the disparity between men and women in public and private sectors.
Hon. Patricia Appiagyei emphasized the importance of setting realistic goals and stressed it would be almost impossible to close the imbalance in Ghanaian society without setting targets.”
The Act aligns with international frameworks like the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the African Union’s Agenda 2063, aiming for sustainable progress.
The Deputy Majority Leader explained the necessity of a gradual approach to achieving gender equity and indicated that the new Act aims to improve the proportion of women in governance, economic activities, and the private sector.
“If we adopt equality as the term, it may be very difficult to attain the kind of quality that ensures fairness,” Appiagyei remarked.
Hon. Appiagyei expressed her delight at the progress, noting Ghana’s historical role as a leader in gender equity.
“I’m highly elated and delighted to know that we have seen the day and the light is shining on us as a country,” she stated.
Despite other African countries like Sierra Leone and East African nations advancing in gender equity, Appiagyei affirmed that it remains Ghana’s will to achieve balance.
The Deputy Majority leader thanked all those who supported the bill, acknowledging their contributions in one way or the other to ensure its passage.
The passage of the Affirmative Action Bill represents a significant victory for gender rights advocates in Ghana, setting a foundation for further progress toward gender equity in all sectors.