Gender Minister urges media to drive Affirmative Action Act ahead of 30% target

The Minister for Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, has called on the media to go beyond reporting and actively support the promotion of gender equality as Ghana begins implementing the Affirmative Action (Gender Equity) Act.

The landmark law, passed in 2024, requires at least 30 percent representation of women in political, economic and social institutions, with the broader goal of achieving full gender parity by 2034.

Speaking during a media engagement on Thursday, May 14, Mrs Lartey stressed the importance of strong collaboration between the ministry and journalists to ensure the successful implementation of the legislation.

She described the media as essential to the success of the Act, noting that journalists play a critical role in shaping public opinion, increasing awareness and promoting accountability.

According to her, the media serves not only as a channel for information dissemination but also as a key pillar of democratic governance. She added that journalists act as a bridge between government policies and the public by helping citizens better understand legislation and its implications.

Mrs Lartey noted that consistent and accurate reporting on gender equality issues can help transform societal attitudes and encourage lasting change.

“When you report accurately and consistently on gender equality issues, you do more than inform. You build consensus, challenge discrimination, and help create the cultural conditions necessary for lasting change,” she stated.

She explained that the engagement was organised to strengthen cooperation between the ministry and the media in order to improve public understanding of the law and ensure balanced reporting on gender matters.

“This engagement today is to strengthen collaboration with the media to improve understanding of the Act among the public and enhance accurate reporting on gender issues,” she said.

The minister further encouraged journalists to use their platforms to intensify public education on the law, particularly in underserved communities, stressing that sustained media involvement would be crucial to the policy’s success.

She said the ministry would depend heavily on the media to maintain continuous public discussion on gender equity and to support the implementation process.

“Through this initiative, we aim to equip you with the understanding and knowledge needed to aid in the implementation of the Act,” she added.

Mrs Lartey also highlighted the importance of ongoing media engagement in monitoring progress and ensuring accountability as the country works towards achieving gender equity goals.