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Ghana Urges Political Parties to Prioritize Women's Inclusion

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  Published in Politics and Government on Monday, January 26th 2026 at 11:31 GMT by Ghanaweb.com
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Accra, Ghana - January 26th, 2026 - As Ghana continues to navigate its democratic landscape, a persistent challenge remains: the underrepresentation of women in government positions. Today, Claudia Lumor, a prominent voice in Ghanaian media and Head of Corporate Affairs at Starr FM, amplified this concern, urging political parties to actively prioritize the inclusion of more women in key decision-making roles. Her call for action, delivered during a panel discussion on gender and politics, underscores a growing national conversation surrounding equitable representation and the vital contributions women can bring to governance.

Lumor's appeal comes at a time when Ghana, like many nations globally, is grappling with the complexities of achieving true gender equality. While progress has undeniably been made - witnessing increased female participation in local government and some legislative roles - a substantial gap remains. The historical and societal factors contributing to this gap are multifaceted, including deeply ingrained cultural norms, limited access to resources and networks for women, and the prevalence of gender-based stereotypes that can hinder political ambition.

"The data is clear; we haven't reached parity," Lumor stated during the panel discussion. "While we celebrate the strides made, it's crucial to acknowledge the ongoing imbalance and actively work to rectify it. Women's perspectives are essential for crafting effective policies that address the needs of all citizens. Their experiences bring unique insights that enrich the decision-making process, leading to more inclusive and equitable outcomes."

The benefits of greater female representation extend far beyond simply fulfilling a quota. Research consistently demonstrates that increased female participation in politics correlates with improved governance outcomes. Studies have shown that women in leadership positions often prioritize social welfare programs, demonstrate greater transparency in government operations, and are more likely to foster consensus-building and collaborative environments. The inclusion of women's voices ensures policies are more responsive to the needs of the entire population, not just a select demographic.

The panel discussion, which drew significant attention on social media, explored several avenues for accelerating progress. Beyond simply encouraging political parties to nominate more female candidates, the conversation highlighted the critical role of mentorship programs. Providing support and guidance to aspiring female politicians is seen as a vital tool for overcoming systemic barriers and building confidence. Many organizations are already working to establish such programs, offering networking opportunities, leadership training, and advocacy skills development.

Furthermore, the discussion touched on the importance of addressing the root causes of gender inequality. This includes initiatives aimed at challenging harmful stereotypes, promoting economic empowerment for women, and ensuring equal access to education and healthcare. A comprehensive approach requires a shift in cultural attitudes and a commitment to dismantling the structural obstacles that have historically disadvantaged women in Ghanaian society. The need for financial support for women entering politics was also mentioned; campaign financing has often been cited as a major barrier, with women frequently lacking the resources available to male counterparts.

Looking ahead, Lumor's call serves as a timely reminder of the ongoing work needed to achieve true gender equality in Ghanaian politics. The political landscape is shifting; a younger generation of Ghanaians is increasingly vocal about social justice issues, and the demand for greater representation is growing louder. While legislative reforms and political party initiatives are important, sustained public awareness campaigns and grassroots movements are equally crucial in driving meaningful change. The challenge now lies in translating these discussions into concrete actions and measurable progress, ensuring that Ghanaian governance reflects the diverse population it serves. The media, as highlighted by Lumor's position, has a critical role to play in amplifying these conversations and holding political parties accountable for their commitments to gender equality.