In a powerful address at the ongoing 39th African Union (AU) Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, President John Dramani Mahama has reiterated his commitment to advancing gender equality across the continent. As the AU Champion for Gender Development Issues and Financial Institutions, Mahama has called upon African nations to unite in the fight against violence directed towards women and girls.
Speaking at a High-Level Breakfast Meeting focused on financing and reaffirming commitments to gender issues, the President highlighted the urgent need for member states to endorse the AU Convention on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls. This significant treaty was ratified in February 2025 during an AU Assembly meeting aimed at eradicating violence against women throughout Africa.
“Ghana has taken the first step by signing this vital convention, and I am pleased to announce that our Parliament will soon ratify it,” Mahama stated. He urged all nations to follow suit by completing the ratification process before the end of 2026.
Mahama pointed out that the prevalence of violence against women not only represents a moral failure but also imposes severe economic burdens on African nations, costing billions annually due to healthcare expenses, loss of productivity, and legal proceedings. “The ratification of this Convention will send a clear message that we will not tolerate violence against women in our societies,” he added.
During his remarks, Mahama emphasized that these frameworks are not merely regulatory measures; they are fundamental to the broader architecture of human rights and development in Africa. “While frameworks are important, the political will to implement them is paramount,” he noted.
Furthermore, the Ghanaian leader highlighted the significant strides his country has made in gender representation, including the historic election of the first female Vice President and a notable increase in women’s roles within government and the judiciary. “I believe that it is only a matter of time before a woman leads Ghana as President,” Mahama expressed confidently.
In his 2026 budget proposal, Mahama revealed a substantial allocation of GH¢401 million to establish the Women’s Development Bank, aimed at providing affordable credit and support to women, particularly those in vulnerable employment sectors. He also mentioned the government’s efforts to enhance protective services for women and girls, including specialized domestic violence units and various social protection programs.
Additionally, Mahama announced the enactment of the Affirmative Action Gender Equity Act, which sets progressive targets for female representation in governance: 30% by 2026, 35% by 2028, and 50% by 2030.
