The Minister for Gender, Children, and Social Protection, Hon. Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, met with senior female journalists to discuss media collaboration, gender issues, and the media’s role in advancing women’s rights. This engagement marked a significant step towards amplifying women’s voices in national discourse.
Dr. Lartey emphasized the importance of creating space for women to be seen and heard, highlighting the crucial role journalists play in shaping public perception and policy advocacy. She stressed that the media has a unique responsibility to amplify women’s voices and highlight gender-related challenges.
The Minister reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to gender equality, child protection, and social welfare, aligning with President John Dramani Mahama’s vision of reducing vulnerability to the lowest possible level. She assured that the Ministry is working tirelessly with stakeholders to realize this vision within the shortest possible time.
Dr. Lartey outlined key priorities for her first 120 days in office, including accelerating the implementation of the Affirmative Action Bill and passing the Social Protection Bill. She also highlighted the government’s efforts to improve education and child welfare, including decentralizing the Ghana School Feeding Programme and providing free sanitary pads to schoolgirls.
The Minister also discussed women’s empowerment and economic development, including the upcoming Women’s Development Bank, which will provide financial support for women entrepreneurs. She urged journalists to spotlight such initiatives to inform and inspire more women.
On gender-based violence, Dr. Lartey called for amendments to the Domestic Violence Act and announced plans to establish 16 shelters across the country to provide safety for survivors of abuse. She urged journalists to use their platforms to challenge harmful cultural practices that hinder gender equality.
The meeting was attended by the Chief Director, Dr. Afisah Zakariah, and the Social Protection Director, Madam Francisca Atuluk. The female journalists congratulated the Minister on her appointment and pledged their support to her and the Ministry in championing gender equality and social protection in Ghana.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
