Former Minister for Information and now aide to the former president Nana Addo Danquah Akuffo Addo, Fatimatu Abubakar, has called for intensified efforts to boost women’s participation in Ghana’s legal and political landscape, emphasising the need for full implementation of the Affirmative Action (Gender Equity) Act, 2024.
She made the call while speaking at the Leadership and Law Series organised by the Law Students Network (LSN) at the University of Ghana on April 18, 2026.
The event brought together legal minds, students, and policy advocates to discuss leadership and governance within the legal framework.
The event, which featured distinguished speakers such as Godfred Dame former Attorney General, Hon. Sammy Awuku, and Hon. Jerry Ahmed, member of parliament for Weija-Gbawe, was established as a platform for students, politicians, lawyers, and emerging leaders to engage in meaningful discussions on issues at the intersection of leadership, law, and politics.
Addressing participants, Ms. Abubakar highlighted the persistent underrepresentation of women in both law practice and political leadership in Ghana.
According to her, despite notable progress over the years, structural and societal barriers continue to limit opportunities for women to fully participate in decision-making processes.
She stressed that the passage of the Affirmative Action (Gender Equity) Act, 2024, presents a significant opportunity to address these disparities.
However, she noted that the real impact of the law would depend on its effective implementation, backed by strong political will and institutional commitment.
“The law is a step in the right direction, but its success will be determined by how well it is enforced and supported by complementary policies,” she stated.
Ms. Abubakar further called for deliberate strategies to mentor and empower young women pursuing careers in law and politics.
She urged stakeholders, including academic institutions, civil society organisations, and government agencies, to collaborate in creating an enabling environment that promotes gender inclusion.
She also encouraged female law students to take up leadership roles and actively participate in governance processes, noting that representation is key to shaping policies that reflect the needs of all segments of society.
The Leadership and Law Series forms part of ongoing efforts by the Law Students Network to expose students to real-world experiences and inspire the next generation of legal professionals.
