African Liberators Economic Institute (ALEI) joins the world in celebrating International Women’s Day on March 8, 2023.
We recognize and celebrate the outstanding efforts of women in peacekeeping, conflict resolution, and sustainable development across the world.
The United Nations has made significant progress in advancing women’s rights and empowerment globally. However, more needs to be done to create policies and programs that improve the lives of women all over the world, including Ghana.
ALEI suggests that the UN should focus on creating policies that address gender-based violence, economic empowerment, and education for girls.
Women’s participation in politics is still low in most parts of the world.
However, there are a few examples of women who have broken through this barrier and are contributing immensely to the world’s economy.
In Africa, women entrepreneurs are opening up new markets and leading innovative initiatives that are positively impacting economic growth.
Good news: According to the 2023 edition of the Inter-Parliamentary Union-UN Women Map of Women in Politics, the number of women occupying political decision-making positions around the world has reached an all-time high.
There are now more women in political decision-making positions worldwide than ever before! But before we start celebrating, let’s not forget that we still have a long way to go in achieving true gender parity.
Case in point: Ghana, where only 40 out of 275 Members of Parliament are women. That’s a measly 14.5%, which is lower than the average for both Africa (24%) and the world (23%).
So, while progress is being made, there’s still plenty of work to be done to ensure that women have equal representation in politics.
In Ghana, women have made significant strides in politics, leadership, and public life. Women hold important positions in parliament, public service, and politics. Women are actively contributing to achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by promoting gender equality, creating sustainable communities, and supporting economic growth.
Despite the progress made, women’s participation in politics in Ghana is still low, with women only occupying a few key leadership positions.
This year’s theme for the International women’s Day is “Embrace Equity”.
To fully embrace the principles of equity, a fundamental change in mindset and a strong dedication to implementing tangible measures for achieving gender parity are imperative.
In this connection, ALEI urges the government to accelerate the adoption of the Affirmative Action Bill as law, to secure gender equality in politics and other areas of leadership.
*Conclusion and Recommendations* :
On this International Women’s Day, ALEI celebrates and recognizes the efforts of women worldwide in promoting peace, gender equality, and sustainable development.
We call on governments, civil society, and the private sector to work together to create policies and programs that empower women and improve their lives.
We also recommend that women’s reproductive health and rights be prioritized to ensure their overall well-being.
ALEI remains committed to working with partners to ensure that women’s voices are heard and their rights are respected.
We say Ayekoo to all women in Ghana and the rest of the world
Alex Ababio
Executive Director, African Liberators Economic Institute(ALEI)