Ghana’s Historic First: Will Parliament Seize the Moment for Women’s Representation?

By Dr. Gifty Adika, Snr. Governance Advisor, ACEPA

On 22nd July 2025, Ghana marked a historic milestone. Hon. Ewurabena Aubynn was sworn in as the youngest Member of the 9th Parliament and her entry pushed the number of female MPs to 41, the highest in the nation’s parliamentary history.

This is a moment worth celebrating not just for Hon. Aubynn, but for Parliament as an institution, and for the country as a whole. Yet, as we applaud this progress, we must also ask: what does this really mean for the future of women’s representation in Ghana? And are we on course to meet the targets set by the newly enacted Affirmative Action (Gender Equity) Act, 2024?

A Persistent Gap

Despite making up over half of Ghana’s population, women remain significantly underrepresented in Parliament and in leadership more broadly. This is not due to a lack of capable women, it is rooted in longstanding structural and political barriers that restrict access to these roles.

The Affirmative Action (Gender Equity) Act, 2024 is a landmark achievement. It sets out legal and policy frameworks to promote gender equality and increase women’s participation in public life. Its passage deserves recognition.

However, the Act still leaves critical gaps, particularly around the role of political parties. These parties are the gatekeepers of candidacy, yet most lack concrete policies or incentives to nominate and support women. Without enforceable measures or political will, progress risks being slow, uneven, or merely symbolic.

What Needs to Happen Next

1. Strengthen Parliament’s Leadership Role

Parliament must go beyond implementing the Act. It should lead efforts to review and strengthen the legislation, political party systems, and the Constitution. Introducing incentives for parties to promote women candidates is key.

2. Empower the Parliamentary Women’s Caucus

The Women’s Caucus must act strategically, working across party lines, building coalitions with male allies, and forging partnerships with civil society, media, and development actors. Initiatives like the Inclusive Legislatures for Gender-Responsive Policies (ILGRP), funded by Global Affairs Canada and implemented by ACEPA and the Parliamentary Centre, are valuable collaborators.

3. Drive a National Dialogue

Ghana needs an inclusive, sustained national conversation on bridging the gender gap in politics. Are we ready to consider reserved seats? Can campaign finance reform level the playing field? Will public institutions and the executive lead by appointing more women?

4. Focus on Meaningful Representation

Increasing numbers are not enough. Women in Parliament must have the tools, influence, and support to lead effectively. Investment in building the leadership capacity of female MPs is essential for lasting change.

A Call to Action

Hon. Ewurabena Aubynn’s swearing-in is more than a ceremonial milestone; it is a moment of possibility. It reminds us that progress is within reach, but it also underscores how much more needs to be done.

• To political parties: Put women on the ballot, and in leadership.
• To Parliament: Lead boldly and visibly on gender equity.
• To society: Move beyond words. Build a culture rooted in real equality.

Ghana has taken a historic step forward. Let us ensure it is the beginning of sustained, systemic change, not a one-off celebration.