By Gloria Anderson
Convenor of the Affirmative Action Coalition Bill, Sheila Minkah-Premo, has emphasised that the work is far from over despite the bill’s recent passage into law. In an interview with GBC’s Gloria Anderson, she stressed the need to establish a monitoring committee, secure resources, develop a plan of action, and enact the necessary legislative instruments to ensure the Act’s effectiveness. “These tasks are critical to making the Act effective and ensuring that the goals of gender equity are fully realised,” Minkah-Premo stated.
Expressing her immense joy at the bill’s passage after over two decades of advocacy, Minkah-Premo acknowledged the collective efforts of the Ministry, Members of Parliament, and Coalition members who persevered through numerous challenges to bring the bill to fruition.
She also recounted the difficult journey, highlighting several obstacles that nearly derailed the process. “There were many occasions when we tried to follow up, only to be told that the bill had gone to Cabinet, and we were waiting for feedback,” she said. She noted that periods of inactivity from key government figures and delays in Parliament often led to frustration and doubt. However, the Coalition remained determined, mobilising support and pushing forward despite the setbacks.
One major issue that slowed progress was the expiration of the gender policy, which had lapsed for five years by the time the bill reached Parliament. The Ministry of Gender, with assistance from development partners, quickly developed a new gender policy for 2023 to 2030, which was crucial in obtaining Cabinet approval.
Minkah-Premo also underscored the importance of ongoing advocacy and future amendments to strengthen the Act as it is put into practice. The passage of the Affirmative Action Coalition Bill is a milestone in Ghana’s pursuit of gender equality, but continued vigilance and effort are needed to ensure that the law achieves its intended impact.
