NDC flagbearer John Dramani Mahama has outlined his vision to enhance women’s representation in governance and provide economic opportunities for women if elected in the 2024 elections. Speaking at the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Women’s Manifesto launch in Kumasi on Monday, September 30, Mr. Mahama emphasized the need for gender balance in leadership roles across various sectors.
“We will increase women’s representation in Parliament, district assemblies, and leadership roles across all sectors. We will do this not only because it is the right thing to do, but also because Ghana needs the best of its human resources. By operationalizing the Affirmative Action Act of 2024, we will ensure that women hold at least 30% of political appointments,” he said.
In addition to increasing representation, Mr. Mahama promised legislative reforms to solidify women’s rights, including the passage of the Property Rights of Spouses Bill, the Domestic Workers Bill, and the Intestate Succession Amendment Bill.
On economic empowerment, the former president detailed plans to support women entrepreneurs and tackle unemployment. “The Women’s Development Bank will support women-owned businesses, while our National Apprenticeship Programme will provide free TVET training to young people, especially women, in various trades,” he stated.
He also committed to implementing a national Zero Tolerance Policy on gender-based violence, citing statistics that 27.7% of women in Ghana experience such violence. “We reject the notion that women should suffer in silence,” Mr. Mahama stressed, pledging the establishment of regional shelters and comprehensive care for survivors.
The NDC flagbearer assured Ghanaians that these initiatives reflect the current realities of women in the country and are aimed at addressing pressing issues in the coming years.
