General discussion of the sixty-ninth session of the commission on the status of women (CSW69)
Hon. Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey
Minister For Gender, Children and
Social Protection of the Republic of Ghana
Conference Room 4,
United Nations, New York
March 12 2025
GENERAL DISCUSSION OF THE 69TH SESSION OF THE COMMISSION ON THE STATUS OF WOMEN (CSW69)
Chairperson, Excellencies, Distinguished Delegates,
It is an honour to address the sixty-ninth session of the Commission on the Status of Women at this pivotal moment in our shared history. As we mark the 30th Anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action (BDPfA), a visionary blueprint for gender equality, this occasion presents a critical opportunity to assess our progress, reflect on lessons learned, and renew our commitment to advancing women’s empowerment.
For Ghana, this milestone carries added significance as we also celebrate 50 years of our National Women’s Machinery. This session provides an invaluable platform to highlight achievements, share best practices, and strengthen collective efforts toward gender equality and the full empowerment of women and girls. While the promise of Beijing endures, it demands renewed urgency. The BDPfA was not just a commitment but a call to action, recognising that national progress hinges on the advancement of women and girls. As we evaluate its implementation, persistent gaps and structural barriers remind us that our work is far from over, compelling us to act with greater resolve.
Chairperson,
Ghana remains steadfast in its commitment to the full realisation of the BDPfA. Under the leadership of His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama, the government has taken decisive steps to mainstream gender concerns into socioeconomic development policies. This commitment is evident in the historic appointment of Ghana’s first female Vice President and the unprecedented
representation of women (47%) in key decision-making positions.
As we reflect on three decades of progress, Ghana is proud to share its achievements in advancing gender equality. Our response to eliminating all forms of violence against women and girls has been robust, ensuring that no one is left behind. Key institutions have been established and strengthened to protect women’s rights, including addressing violence against women and providing essential social support services. The Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection, the Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit (DOVVSU) of the Ghana Police Service, the Domestic Violence Secretariat, and the Domestic Violence Courts are such key institutions protecting the rights of women in Ghana. Sustained budgetary allocations have reinforced their capacity to provide critical support services and ensure justice for victims of gender-based violence.
The Government of Ghana is also implementing flagship programmes to reduce poverty and promote economic empowerment, particularly for women and
vulnerable groups. These include:
• The Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP) programme, supporting female-headed households;
• The Ghana School Feeding Programme uses homegrown food and ingredients to provide one hot meal a day for children to improve nutrition and school retention rates, especially for girls;
• 50% of Micro Finance and Small Loans Center (MASLOC) funding is allocated to female entrepreneurs;
• Over 6,000 women are linked to complementary livelihood programmes, including Labour Intensive Public Works and Complementary Livelihood Asset Support Scheme, and
• Planned nationwide distribution of free sanitary pads to Primary and Junior Secondary Schools.
Chairperson,
Ghana’s commitment to gender equality is reinforced by a strong legal and policy framework that safeguards the rights of women and girls across all spheres of society. Key instruments include:
• The Affirmative Action (Gender Equity) Act, 2024
• Revised National Gender Policy (2023-2033)
• Ghana National Social Protection Policy
• Ghana National School Feeding Policy
• National Ageing Policy
• Domestic Violence Act, 2007
• Juvenile Justice Act, 2003
• Human Trafficking Act, 2005
• Child and Family Welfare Policy; and
• Justice for Children Policy
To further accelerate progress towards gender equality, Ghana is establishing a Women’s Development Bank to provide low-interest loans, financial education, and business development support for female entrepreneurs. This initiative aims to
expand financial inclusion and economic independence for women.
Chairperson,
Despite progress, gender pay gaps, underrepresentation in leadership, gender-based violence, and socioeconomic inequalities persist. Yet, one lesson remains clear: when women thrive, nations prosper.
To conclude, Ghana is committed to strengthening advocacy for women’s leadership and calls on all states to move beyond commitments to transformative action. Let us make Beijing+30 a turning point that accelerates the realization of gender equality and women’s empowerment.
I thank you for your kind attention.