Josephine Oppong-Yeboah is a media personality and gender advocate
Media personality and gender advocate, Josephine Oppong-Yeboah, has lauded President John Dramani Mahama for his unwavering commitment to implementing the Affirmative Action Act of 2024 (Act 1121), a key legislation aimed at advancing gender equity across all sectors of national development.
“It is welcoming to hear that President Mahama wants to put to action the Affirmative Action Act,” she noted.
For her, the full implementation of the Act would amplify women’s voices and ensure their active participation in shaping the country’s future.
During his first State of the Nation Address (SONA) since his re-election, delivered on Thursday, February 27, 2025, President Mahama reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to operationalising the Affirmative Action Act.
He disclosed that the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection is collaborating with key stakeholders to enforce the provisions of the Act, which mandates a 30 percent quota for women in political appointments.
“I’m pleased to report that women currently constitute 23.21 percent of all appointments, and we are steadily working towards meeting the target set by Act 1121,” President Mahama stated.
The Affirmative Action Bill was passed by Parliament on Tuesday, July 30, 2024. President Akufo-Addo assented to the Affirmative Action Bill in September 2024.
Reacting to the president’s pledge, Oppong-Yeboah reiterated her support, highlighting the broader benefits of gender equity.
“The successful implementation of this Act will not only enhance gender balance but also drive economic growth, strengthen democracy, and address long-standing inequalities,” she said.
She further stressed that the Act would elevate women’s visibility in leadership and decision-making roles, inspiring future generations and fostering a cycle of mentorship and empowerment.
“Gender equality is directly linked to economic progress. By ensuring women’s full participation in all aspects of society, Ghana can build a more inclusive and prosperous future for all,” she added.
Meanwhile, watch this Ghana Month special edition of People and Places as we hear the story of how the head of Kwame Nkrumah’s bronze statue was returned after 43 years, below: