MINISTER FOR GENDER PARTICIPATES IN THE HEFORSHE SUMMIT 2025

On Saturday 23rd August 2025, the Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Hon. Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, participated in the HeForShe Summit 2025, organized by the African Women in Leadership Organisation (AWLO).

The summit, held under the theme “Redefining Masculinity: Men as a Catalyst for Women Development,” brought together policymakers, diplomats, civil society actors, and advocates to explore the critical role of men in advancing gender equality.

Representing His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, the Minister for Gender – Hon. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, emphasized that masculinity should not be seen as a rival to women’s empowerment but as an ally for progress.

“True masculinity is not in opposition to women’s empowerment—it is instrumental to it. We need men who are not only allies behind closed doors, but advocates in public, mentors in leadership spaces, and defenders of equality in every sphere of society,” she stated.

The Minister for Gender highlighted President Mahama’s longstanding commitment to gender equality, noting his historic nomination of Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang as Ghana’s first female Vice President, his record of appointing women to head strategic ministries and agencies, and his push for affirmative action in government.

She described the honour conferred on him at the summit: ‘Global HeForShe Champion of the Decade’ , as a fitting recognition of his values and leadership.

Touching on her Ministry’s efforts, Hon. Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey reaffirmed that the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection remains committed to advancing the President’s vision through the implementation of the Affirmative Action Act (2024), reforms in social protection programmes such as LEAP and the School Feeding Programme, and partnerships that create opportunities for women in leadership, innovation, and enterprise.

She further urged men in leadership to use their platforms to elevate women’s voices, challenge harmful norms, and stand firmly with women in the pursuit of equity and justice.

Declaring the summit officially open on behalf of the President, the Minister called on participants to make the gathering not just a platform for dialogue but a launchpad for action.

“Let us redefine masculinity. Let us reclaim equality. Let us rise together,” she concluded.

Source: MoGCSP