The African Women Leaders Network (AWLN) Ghana Chapter has called for concrete actions to advance the rights of women and girls and ensure that gender equality becomes a reality in the country.

The call was made in a statement issued in Accra yesterday and signed by the Chairperson of AWLN, Ghana Chapter, Dr Charity Binka, to commemorate this year’s International Women’s Day, marked globally on March 8, under the theme “Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls.”

The network said the theme served as both a moment for reflection and a strong call to action, noting that although progress had been made in promoting gender equality, many women and girls continued to face barriers that limited their rights and participation in society.

“As a network committed to advancing women’s leadership, gender equality, and inclusive development, AWLN Ghana emphasises that rights must be protected, justice must be accessible, and action must be deliberate and sustained if we are to build a society where every woman and girl can thrive,” the statement said.

The group acknowledged that Ghana had made notable strides towards gender equality, including the passage of the Affirmative Action (Gender Equity) Act, which it described as a historic milestone in promoting women’s representation and participation in decision-making.

However, it stressed that legislation alone would not be enough to achieve meaningful change. “Effective implementation, public awareness, and institutional accountability are essential to ensure that these rights translate into real opportunities for women and girls across the country,” the statement added.

The network therefore urged the full implementation of the Affirmative Action Act to guarantee increased representation of women in governance, leadership, and public life. It also called for strengthened access to justice for women and girls, including greater protection against gender-based violence and discrimination.

In addition, AWLN Ghana advocated increased investment in girls’ education and digital inclusion to equip young women with the skills needed to participate in the evolving global economy.

The network further called for economic empowerment initiatives for women, particularly through support for women entrepreneurs, improved access to finance, and equal opportunities in the labour market.

AWLN Ghana also appealed for collective efforts by government, civil society, traditional authorities, the private sector, and the media to challenge harmful social norms and promote gender equality.

The statement celebrated the resilience, leadership, and contributions of Ghanaian women and girls who continue to play vital roles in shaping communities, institutions, and the nation’s future. It also reaffirmed the network’s commitment to mentoring the next generation of women leaders and amplifying the voices of young women in national development.

“The time for promises has passed. The moment demands Rights. Justice. Action,” the statement emphasised.