By Ernest De-Graft EGYIR
As Ghana and the world celebrate International Women’s Day on March 8, 2025, the theme ‘Accelerate Action’ serves as a powerful call to advance gender equality. Women’s empowerment is not just a social cause—it is a key driver of economic growth, poverty reduction, and sustainable development.
However, progress remains slow, with systemic barriers continuing to hinder women’s leadership, economic participation, and personal freedoms.
The role of good governance in women’s empowerment
Governments must take bold steps to accelerate gender equality through policies that promote women’s leadership, financial inclusion, and education. In Ghana, initiatives such as the Affirmative Action Bill must be reinforced to ensure equal representation in leadership and governance. Additionally, governments should expand programs that provide women with access to credit, mentorship, and entrepreneurial support.
Key government actions needed:
- Gender parity in leadership: Enforce policies ensuring equal representation of women in governance, corporate boards, and decision-making roles.
- Economic empowerment: Expand access to business financing, training, and mentorship for female entrepreneurs.
- Ending gender-based violence: Strengthen laws protecting women and ensure strict enforcement to safeguard their rights.
- Education and skills development: Promote STEM education for girls, scholarship programs, and leadership training to prepare women for high-impact roles.
Corporate opportunities for women leaders
The Ghana CEO Network and the Ghana CEO Summit are committed to advancing women’s leadership in business. Corporate leaders must take decisive steps to foster gender-inclusive workplaces, ensuring equal pay, flexible work arrangements, and leadership opportunities for women.
How corporations can support women’s leadership:
- Equal pay and career growth: Implement fair wage policies and structured career development programs.
- Flexible work policies: Encourage work-life balance through parental leave and hybrid work options.
- Investment in women-owned businesses: Provide funding and mentorship programs for female entrepreneurs.
- Leadership development: Create initiatives that prepare women for top executive roles.
Encouraging women to forge ahead
Women and girls across Africa must seize opportunities, challenge societal norms, and push forward with confidence. By believing in their potential, seeking mentorship, and developing marketable skills, they can break barriers and take on leadership roles.
Advice for women and girls:
- Believe in yourself: Confidence is key to success.
- Join networks and mentorship programmes: Engage with groups like the Ghana CEO Network to access leadership opportunities.
- Embrace skills development: Stay competitive by acquiring digital, entrepreneurial, and leadership skills.
- Advocate for change: Speak up and take part in initiatives that promote gender equality.
Conclusion
This International Women’s Day, let us go beyond celebration and take action. Governments, corporations, and individuals must work together to ensure that women and girls are at the center of economic and leadership transformation. The Ghana CEO Network and the Ghana CEO Summit remain committed to accelerating gender equality and building a fairer, wealthier, and more inclusive Africa. The time for action is now!
