Claudia Kwarteng Lumor hosts female MPs, ambassadors and policy leaders on gender equity

The Marriott Hotel in Accra hosted the 2025 Women’s Leadership Breakfast Forum on March 28. Claudia Kwarteng Lumor convened the event.

Female MPs, foreign ambassadors, and policy influencers attended. They discussed the next steps after Ghana’s Affirmative Action Law was passed.

This law aims for 30% representation of women in decision-making by 2026. It targets 35% by 2028 and 50% by 2030. However, implementation remains a challenge.

Claudia Kwarteng Lumor asked, "How do we ensure that women are empowered in leadership?"

Nana Oye Bampoe, Ghana’s Deputy Chief of Staff, shared the law's history. It originated from a proposal by Gloria Ofori Boadu in 1996. After nearly three decades of efforts, it is now law.

Bampoe noted, "Thirty-three years later, we have an act. It's time for celebration and accountability." She highlighted the backlash women face in leadership roles.

Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, Ghana’s Minister for Gender, Children, and Social Protection, reassured attendees about government commitment to enforcement.

A Gender Equity Committee will monitor compliance across various sectors. A legislative instrument is being developed to guide implementation.

However, enforcement often struggles due to funding issues and cultural resistance.

International representatives emphasized global partnerships for gender equity. Harriet Thompson (British High Commissioner) and H.E. Simone Giger (Swiss Ambassador) spoke on this need.

Claudia Kwarteng Lumor concluded with a call to action: "This dialogue must lead to action." She stressed that the law should not just be words on paper.

The forum was an important step forward. The real test lies in turning discussions into measurable impact.