Gender Minister Champions Women’s Economic Empowerment at WiSA International Festival 2026

Edited by: Solomon Kwabena Nana-Ansah – Paaps – 

The Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, has reaffirmed government’s commitment to advancing women’s economic empowerment as a critical driver of sustainable development across Africa.

She made this known while serving as Special Guest of Honour at the Women in Sustainability Africa (WiSA) International Festival 2026, held at the Cedi Conference Centre of the University of Ghana under the theme “Empowering Women for the Economic Sustainability of Africa.”

The festival convened women leaders, policymakers, development partners, civil society organisations, traditional and religious authorities, corporate institutions, and sustainability advocates to explore strategies for strengthening women’s economic empowerment and promoting inclusive growth on the continent.

Addressing participants, Dr. Lartey commended the organisers, particularly Women in Sustainability Africa and its partners, for what she described as a timely and strategic platform for dialogue at both national and regional levels. She noted that the festival not only celebrates the achievements of African women but also serves as a call to action for stakeholders to intensify investments, strengthen policies, and deepen partnerships that place women at the centre of Africa’s development agenda.

The Minister emphasised that empowering women remains a key pillar in reducing poverty and accelerating national growth. She highlighted several government interventions aimed at improving livelihoods, especially among vulnerable groups, noting that the Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP) initiative continues to provide vital support to households while promoting social inclusion and economic resilience.

She further underscored the significance of Ghana’s evolving leadership landscape, describing the election of the country’s first female Vice President as a strong symbol of progress and a renewed commitment to women’s participation in governance and decision-making.

In a related message, Dr. Lartey extended her best wishes to candidates sitting for the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) 2026, urging them to remain focused and disciplined. She also called on parents and guardians to support candidates by minimising household demands and creating an enabling environment for effective preparation.

The WiSA International Festival continues to serve as a vital platform for advancing conversations on gender equality, sustainability, and inclusive economic transformation across Africa.