The Deputy Minister of Gender and Social Protection, Mr. Joseph Alexander Ackon has condemned the low representation of women in politics globally, saying their under representation is in violation of the democracy practiced by in various states.
Women’s participation in politics in Ghana continues to dwindle though they represent 52 percent of the national population.
Speaking at the 2014 Moremi Initiative for Women’s leadership in Africa, Mr. Ackon noted that “women are also underrepresented at the high decision making levels, making decision outcomes not tailored to address their concerns.”
The Minister therefore emphasized the need for Ghana to devise a multifaceted approach to effectively deal with gender inequality.
“As we advocate sustainable development, we need to acknowledge that achieving gender equality is for the benefit of the entire nation and continent. We need to devise a multifaceted approach, strategically involving men, to effectively deal with it,”Mr. Ackon said.
He mentioned that achieving and acknowledging gender equality is for the benefit of the entire nation and continent.
Speaking on the same platform, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Stratcom Africa, Madam Esther Cobbah encouraged young women to confront the cultural inhibitions that often hold them back from stepping boldly into leadership positions.
According to her, “the fact that women are the majority of the population and play key roles, especially in agriculture and in enterprise in many African countries makes the need for women in leadership even more urgent.”
She therefore advised them to “ take up the mantle of leadership in different contexts in society” and “take up challenges of starting and leading enterprises that respond to needs in various African societies.”
Moremi Intitiave aims to engage, inspire and equip young African women and girls to become the next generation of leading politicians, activists, social entrepreneurs and change agents.
By: Marian Efe Ansah/citifmonline.com/Ghana