By Priscilla Oye Ofori
Accra, Mar. 07, GNA—Dr Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, Minister of Gender Children and Social Protection, has advised women to desist from being overly critical of each other in their quest for excellence.
She said that could make them lose confidence and hope.
Dr Lartey gave the advice after the empowerment walk to commemorate the 2025 International Women’s Day in Accra, organised by the Ministry in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and other stakeholders.
International Women’s Day is observed annualy on March 8, to celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women and a call to action for accelerating gender parity.
The theme for this year’s global celebration is: “For All Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment.”
Dr Lartey said criticisms were important, however, women must work together to amplify their voices and ensure that their issues were well represented and articulated in all spheres.
“Professor Nana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, the first female Vice President of the Republic of Ghana, has pledged her support to keep the door open for many women to ascend the highest height of leadership,” she stated.
The Minister urged women and girls to be inspired by the Vice President as they pursue their life and career goals.
Dr Wilfred Ochan, Country Representative, UNFPA, said women and girls were agents of change and must be empowered to thrive without fear, violence, discrimination, and marginalisation.
He said initiatives such as the Free Senior High School education, distribution of sanitary pads, and school meals were crucial for women’s empowerment.
Dr Ochan commended the country for its supportive laws and policies, including the recently enacted Affirmative Action law and free education for girls.
The Country Representative called on the Government to become the key champion of maternal health to reduce maternal deaths.
Dr Charity Binka, Chairperson, African Women Leaders Network (AWLN), encouraged more men to join the movement and champion the gender agenda.
She called for more attention to mentorship, intergenerational leadership, and equal policies, recognising that true empowerment required deliberate and sustained action.
GNA