Alma Pokua Adade-Prempeh, wife of Ghana’s vice-presidential candidate for the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), has hailed the newly passed Affirmative Action Law as a historic step toward gender equality, calling it a “beacon of real change” for the country’s women.
Speaking at the Affirmative Action Conference in Accra, she said that the law would unlock new opportunities in leadership, education, and entrepreneurship for women across the nation.
“This historic legislation is not just a victory for women; it’s a win for Ghana as a whole. It sets the stage for a future where every young woman, regardless of her background, has the tools and confidence to fulfill her dreams,” Adade-Prempeh said.
The Affirmative Action (Gender Equality) Bill, passed on Pan African Women’s Day, mandates gender balance within government, aiming for 50% female representation by 2030. It also challenges the private sector to achieve at least 30% female representation by 2026.
Adade-Prempeh described the law as crucial in addressing long-standing gender imbalances that have marginalized women in Ghana.
“This law is not just symbolic,” she stated. “It’s a critical framework to address the socio-cultural, political, and economic disparities that have limited women’s roles in Ghana’s development.”
As a Chartered Global Management Accountant, Adade-Prempeh shared her belief in the transformative potential of women in Ghana’s economy.
“Women have the potential to transform Ghana’s economy,” she said. “By empowering them with financial resources, training, and mentorship, we are creating a generation of entrepreneurs who can lift themselves and their communities out of poverty. When women succeed, entire communities benefit.”
Adade-Prempeh outlined key areas where the law will make an impact: expanding access to quality education, fostering entrepreneurship, and increasing female representation in leadership roles. Her vision is for a Ghana where young women are leaders across all sectors.
“Representation matters,” she emphasized. “When young women see women in leadership roles, they understand that they, too, can aspire to lead, innovate, and break barriers. For generations, women have been told what they cannot do. Today, we must turn that narrative around.”
She also called for sustained commitment to the law’s implementation, urging government, private sector, and civil society to collaborate. “Passing the law is a bold step, but real change depends on action at every level. It is our collective responsibility to create an environment where young women are not just welcomed but are encouraged and supported.”
Adade-Prempeh concluded with a call to action: “Let us make the Affirmative Action Bill a pathway toward a more just and equitable Ghana. To the young women here, I say: Believe in your potential. To the policymakers, educators, and leaders, I say: Continue to push for inclusivity and equality.”
The event, attended by key advocates and government officials, underscored the nation’s commitment to accelerating gender equality. The Affirmative Action Law is expected to set a regional example, with Ghana positioning itself as a leader in gender-balanced leadership and economic empowerment.
