Madam Mavis Hawa Koomson, the Caretaker Minister for Gender, Children, and Social Protection (MoGCSP), has emphasized the importance of integrating gender issues into plans and budgets to address inequalities and promote gender mainstreaming at all levels of society.
Speaking during the commemoration of International Women's Day under the global theme, “Invest in Women: Accelerate progress,” Madam Koomson highlighted the significance of investing in women not only as an economic strategy but also as a matter of human, social, and health rights.
International Women's Day is celebrated worldwide annually to recognize and celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women and their contributions to national development. The 2024 global theme underscores the importance of investing in women to promote human rights, build inclusive societies, and reduce poverty among women.
Madam Koomson urged policymakers to prioritize policies that enhance equality and the full integration of women into the national development process, fostering an environment conducive to growth and diversity.
The Caretaker Minister reiterated the government's commitment to empowering, promoting, and protecting the rights of women, providing them with platforms to showcase their innovations and ingenuity. She noted the ongoing review and updating of the national gender policy to address social, cultural, economic, and political gender imbalances and promote women's active participation in public life.
Madam Koomson also highlighted the importance of the Social Protection Bill currently before parliament, which aims to provide opportunities for vulnerable groups, particularly women, to access decent work and end poverty in all forms.
She commended all women in the country for their significant contributions to national development and applauded male champions for their support in advancing gender equality, equity, and women's empowerment.
Madam Juliet Amoah, Deputy Director of Emerging Public Leaders (EPL), emphasized the necessity of investing in women for progress across all sectors, while Madam Mercy Needjan, President of the Greater Accra Market Women Association, congratulated all women for their efforts towards national development.
