Empowering Women: A National Priority – Minister Lydia Timpani



The celebration of this year’s International Women’s Day in Accra saw passionate calls for women’s empowerment, economic inclusion, and policy reforms aimed at improving the lives of women in Ghana.


Speaking at the event, Hon. Lydia Timpani, Minister of State for Public Sector Reforms, emphasized the crucial role women play in Ghana’s economy, describing them as the true drivers of trade and agriculture. “We own the world because it is from our small farms, our peppers, tomatoes, and other produce that the economy thrives,” she stated.


However, she acknowledged the many challenges women face, including lack of access to finance, land, and markets. To address these, she reaffirmed her ministry’s commitment to implementing the National Action Plan for Affirmative Action, which aims to ensure that at least 30% of public sector positions are occupied by women. “We are working closely with His Excellency John Dramani Mahama to guarantee this representation across all sectors,” she added.


Hon. Timpani also highlighted plans to improve trade conditions for women by engaging key ministries, including Finance, Foreign Affairs, Gender, and Trade, to ensure better market access and fair pricing for women’s produce. She further stressed the importance of supporting differently-abled women, making sure they are included in Ghana’s economic development.


On policy reforms, she revealed that she is spearheading efforts to secure a six-month maternity leave for women, a significant step toward improving women’s work-life balance and health.


In her remarks, Hon. Gizella Tetteh-Agbotui, Deputy Minister for Works and Housing, urged women to celebrate each other every day, not just on International Women’s Day. “Everybody knows someone just give them a token, appreciate them, and you’ll be surprised how much impact that can have,” she encouraged.


The event concluded with a call for national dialogue to prioritize women’s economic inclusion, access to healthcare, and industrial support, particularly in sectors like shea butter processing. The ministers emphasized that women’s empowerment is not just a national issue but a continental one that requires collective effort and long-term commitment.

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