Int’l Women’s Day: Prof Opoku-Agyemang Defends Affirmative Action Act
- Prof Jane Opoku-Agyemang advocated for women's governance participation to enhance national policies and development
- In her message on International Women's Day, the Vice President defended the Affirmative Action Act and said it must apply in all sectors
- International Women's Day 2026 emphasises the empowerment of women as a strategic investment for a confident world
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The Vice President, Prof Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, has justified the need for women’s participation in governance, emphasising that their inclusion is important for national policies and development.
Prof Opoku-Agyemang said it is essential to pass the Affirmative Action Act, which proposes at least 30 per cent representation of women in public institutions.
Source: Facebook
In a Facebook message to mark International Women’s Day (IWD) 2026, Prof Opoku-Agyemang extended her greetings to all women and highlighted the essence of their participation in leadership in governance.
Prof Opoku-Agyemang indicated that Ghana's theme for IWD 2026 is 'Giving to Gain,' shows the country's intentional efforts to promote gender inclusion through policy and leadership appointments.
"On this International Women’s Day 2026, I send heartfelt greetings to all women and girls across Ghana and around the world. Let us be proud of the resilience, achievements, and essential contributions women continue to make to our nation’s progress."
"In Ghana, the theme 'Giving to Gain' is already demonstrated through concrete actions. The intentional effort to ensure women make up at least 30% of government appointments recognises a simple truth about national development: 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 added.
Professor Opoku-Agyemang said the principle of gender inclusion should not be limited to government institutions alone but rather extend to other sectors, including academia and the creative industry.
"The principle goes beyond government institutions. In business, academia, civil society, the creative industries, faith leadership, and other sectors, expanding opportunities for women enhances our national life. It increases the pool of leadership that we rely on."
"Empowering women is not just a favour; it is a strategic investment in better governance and a more confident Ghana. Happy International Women’s Day," she further stated.
Read the Facebook message below:
Reactions to Veep's IWD message
YEN.com.gh collated some reactions to Prof Opoku-Agyemang's IWD message. Read them below:
Fuseini Wumpini Abdul-wahab said:
"Powerful words. When women support women, greatness becomes unstoppable. May our mothers, sisters, daughters, and leaders continue to break ceilings and rewrite history."
John Afful wrote:
"Listen to wisdom backed by humility, she's not misquoting the psalms that will let David turn in his grave."
Maxwell Duncan-Dugan said:
"Take your time and read that. It's loaded!"
Efo Selorm Kanku wrote:
"Happy international women’s day. You are a trailblazer. God bless you."
Aiyeh Felix said:
"God bless you your excellency, you have brought dignity to the Vice Presidency. We are proud of you. Because of you, SHE Can."
Source: Facebook
President Mahama's message on IWD
Earlier, YEN.com.gh reported that President John Dramani Mahama called for increased investment in women's empowerment for national development.
The President explained that empowering women will transform families, communities and the society at large.
The President shared the statement to celebrate the 2026 International Women’s Day with the theme 'give to gain'
Source: YEN.com.gh
