Vice President Jane Naana Opoku Agyemang has addressed a High-Level Regional Consultation on Political Participation and Leadership of Women and Young People in West Africa. While West Africa has made significant commitments through official frameworks and policies, women and young people remain underrepresented in political leadership and decision-making.
High level Regional Consultation on Political Participation and LeadershipShe highlighted Ghana’s ongoing efforts to strengthen inclusion through legal and institutional reforms, including the implementation of the Affirmative Action Act to promote women’s leadership in public life. Under President Mahama’s leadership, gender equity remains a governance priority. Youth engagement has also been strengthened through platforms established by the Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment and the National Youth Authority.
Inclusion is not just symbolic; it is necessary because institutions perform better when leadership reflects society. Ghana stands ready to collaborate with ECOWAS and regional partners to share best practices while learning from others. Progress requires honest dialogue, deliberate investment in leadership development, mentorship, and capacity building, especially at the grassroots level. I therefore reaffirmed our commitment to action and called on all governments and partners to continue supporting us in making inclusion a reality.
