Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection, has called on the media to take a leading role in promoting public understanding and effective implementation of Ghana’s Affirmative Action (Gender Equity) Act, 2024 (Act 1121).
According to the Minister, sustained and accurate media coverage would be critical in advancing gender equality and ensuring that the provisions of the law translate into meaningful change across society.
Speaking during a media engagement organised by the Ministry on the implementation of the Act, Dr Lartey described the media as an essential force in shaping public opinion, promoting accountability, and supporting democratic governance.
“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.
Dr Lartey explained that the Affirmative Action Act demonstrated government’s commitment to fairness, equal opportunities, and the inclusion of women in decision-making and national development across all sectors.
She noted that the legislation introduced legally binding measures aimed at addressing gender disparities in political participation, economic opportunities, education, and social development, while also encouraging gender-responsive policies and accountability mechanisms.
The Minister stressed that the success of the law would depend heavily on public awareness, collaboration among stakeholders, and sustained national commitment.
She therefore urged media practitioners to go beyond occasional reportage by consistently highlighting gender issues, challenging harmful social norms, and amplifying the voices of women and girls throughout the year.
Dr Lartey expressed optimism that with strong support from the media, the Act would move beyond policy discussions to produce tangible transformation in both public and private institutions.
“That is to ensure the Act is fully realised not just in policy, but in the lived experiences of Ghanaians,” she added.
Speaking on behalf of Marian W. A. Kpakpah, Director of Administration at the Ministry, Mr Ebenezer Charway reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to maintaining close collaboration with the media to support implementation of the law.
He also commended journalists and media organisations for their role in promoting informed public discourse and national development.
