By The world is marking International Women’s Day. The Member of Parliament (MP) for Sekyere Afram Plains, Nasira Afrah, has delivered a message. She urged Ghanaian youth, particularly young girls, to embrace leadership roles. Young people should contribute to national development.
She emphasised the need for women’s active participation in decision-making, governance, and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields. She stressed that gender equality is fundamental to Ghana’s progress.
Speaking on the theme “Accelerate Action,” Hon. Nasira Afrah highlighted Ghana’s significant progress in advancing women’s rights through education, policy reforms, and legal frameworks. However, she acknowledged that cultural and customary barriers still hinder women’s full participation in leadership and economic opportunities. Breaking barriers for women’s leadership
The MP called on traditional leaders to reassess cultural practices that restrict women’s progress. She also urged political parties to actively create spaces for women in decision-making. They should provide women with the necessary resources to thrive.
“The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has set an example by producing the country’s first female vice president. The rise of Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang to this high office will inspire women and girls. It will also accelerate the dreams of many in reaching their full potential,” she stated.
Hon. Nasira Afrah believes that women’s leadership is not a competition with men but rather a partnership in nation-building. She called on fathers, husbands, and brothers to serve as allies in eliminating barriers to women’s empowerment. Economic empowerment and the Women’s Development Bank
Beyond political leadership, the MP stressed the importance of women’s economic empowerment. She pointed out that the proposed Women’s Development Bank, as described in the NDC’s manifesto, would be a game changer. It would support female entrepreneurs, improve access to financial resources, and close the gender wealth gap.
“As a country, we must accelerate action to support the active economic participation of women. Innovative approaches like the Women’s Development Bank will ensure that Ghanaian women receive the financial backing they need. This support helps them scale their businesses and contribute to economic growth,” she said.
Call for collective action
Nasira Afrah reiterated that achieving gender equality requires a collective effort from all sectors. This includes government, civil society, and private institutions. She urged stakeholders to commit to policies and programmes that support women’s inclusion and leadership development.
“I wish Ghanaian women and girls a happy International Women’s Day and encourage them to keep breaking barriers. Together, we can accelerate action. We can dismantle systemic challenges. We can create a more inclusive society where women and girls have equal rights. They deserve opportunities and empowerment,” she concluded.
