The government is making efforts to increase the participation of women and girls in the transport sector.
As part of the initiative, the government is supporting training and capacity-building opportunities for young women interested in careers in logistics, transport, engineering, aviation and maritime services.
The Deputy Minister for Transport and Member of Parliament for Jomoro Constituency in the Western Region, Dorcas Affo-Toffey, disclosed this at the commemoration of International Women’s Day 2026 in Accra.
The event was held under the theme “Investing in Gender Equality for a More Inclusive and Safer Ghana for All.”
Speaking at the event, the Deputy Minister said efforts within the transport sector are focused on promoting gender-responsive transport policies that reflect the needs of women and girls.
“In this regard, efforts within the transport sector are focused on promoting gender-responsive transport policies that reflect the needs of women and girls, encouraging greater participation of women in the transport industry, including leadership, technical and operational roles, improving safety within public transport systems to better protect women and other vulnerable groups, and supporting training and capacity-building opportunities for young women interested in careers in logistics, transport, engineering, aviation and maritime services,” she stated.
She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening policies that promote gender equality and inclusion.
“The Government of Ghana remains firmly committed to strengthening policies that promote gender equality and inclusion. Through frameworks such as the National Gender Policy and the Affirmative Action (Gender Equality) Act, we continue to work toward removing systemic barriers that limit the advancement of women,” she added.
According to her, the theme for this year’s celebration highlights the importance of investing in women and girls to promote national development.
“This theme reminds us that gender equality is not only a matter of fairness and human rights; it is also a critical investment in the progress, stability and prosperity of our nation.
“This year’s reflections also highlight an important principle: ‘Give to Gain.’ When societies give women and girls equal opportunities through education, protection and support, the entire nation benefits. We see stronger families, healthier communities and a more productive economy. Simply put, when we invest in women and girls, we invest in the future of Ghana,” she said.
Madam Affo-Toffey noted that Ghanaian women continue to play significant roles across various sectors of the economy.
“Ghanaian women continue to play indispensable roles in our families, communities, institutions and industries. From entrepreneurship and public service to education, agriculture and transportation, women consistently demonstrate resilience, leadership and innovation,” she stated.
However, she acknowledged that many women and girls still face challenges that limit their full participation in national development.
“Despite the progress we have made, many women and girls still face barriers that limit their full participation in national development. These include unequal access to economic opportunities, under-representation in leadership, gender-based discrimination and harmful cultural practices that restrict the potential of women and girls,” she said.
She further called for collective action to address cultural norms that undermine the dignity and rights of women and girls.
“As we educate ourselves and our communities about gender equality, we must also confront and challenge cultural norms that undermine the dignity, safety and rights of women and girls. Practices that deny girls access to education, limit women’s participation in decision-making or perpetuate gender stereotypes must be addressed through awareness, dialogue and collective action,” she stressed.
Madam Affo-Toffey added that gender equality benefits the entire society.
“Gender equality ultimately benefits everyone. It allows both women and men, girls and boys, to reach their full potential and contribute meaningfully to national development,” she noted.
She emphasised that safe and accessible transport systems play a critical role in inclusive development.
“Within the transport sector, we recognise that transportation plays a critical role in shaping inclusive development. Safe, reliable and accessible transport systems enable women and girls to pursue education, engage in economic activities, access healthcare and participate fully in society,” she explained.
She also commended institutions such as the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre and the Ghana Armed Forces for integrating gender perspectives into their policies and operations.
The Deputy Minister further acknowledged the support of development partners, including GIZ and UN Women, for strengthening gender equality initiatives and institutional capacity in Ghana.
She also highlighted the role of institutions such as the Ghana Education Service and the National Youth Authority in empowering young people, particularly girls, through education, mentorship and leadership opportunities.
Madam Affo-Toffey stressed that achieving gender equality requires the commitment of both men and women.
“Achieving gender equality is not the responsibility of women alone. It requires the commitment of both men and women, working together to challenge stereotypes, promote respect and build inclusive societies.
“If we are truly to ‘Give to Gain’, then we must give our support, our voices and our leadership to advancing equality and justice for all. As we commemorate this important day, let us renew our collective commitment to building a Ghana that is inclusive, safe and full of opportunity for every citizen,” she said.
