As part of its ongoing Gender Equality in Law Campaign (GELC), the Institute for African Women in Law (IAWL) conducted a series of strategic courtesy calls on both private and public sector entities in Ghana. These visits provided a valuable platform for IAWL to engage with prominent figures and institutions within the legal profession and present the Model Policy and Research Brief, which underscores the Campaign.
Public Sector Engagement
The IAWL delegation commenced their courtesy calls with a visit to the Ghana Bar Association, on the 26th of June 2024, where they met with the executives of the Women’s Forum.
The President of the Women’s Forum, Mrs. Sheila Minkah-Premo commended IAWL for sharing its research findings on the challenges faced by African women in law. She highlighted that in Ghana, women comprise nearly half of the legal profession, making it imperative for women to hold leadership positions within the Bar. Mrs. Minkah-Premo emphasized the importance of the Gender Equality in Law Campaign, noting that empowering women lawyers is essential so they, in turn, can support and advocate for others in society.
Next, the IAWL team paid a courtesy call to the Office of the Attorney-General and Minister for Justice. Hon. Diana Asonaba Dapaah, the Deputy Attorney-General, and Mr. Reginald Odoi, an Assistant State Attorney received the IAWL team. During this visit, the IAWL delegation discussed collaborative efforts to promote gender equality within legal frameworks and practices, receiving encouraging feedback and support from the Attorney-General’s office. During discussions, the Deputy Attorney-General recommended that IAWL coordinate with the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection as well as the Women’s Caucus in Parliament. Similarly, she urged IAWL to contribute to the Affirmative Action Bill, which is scheduled to be presented to Parliament.
Private Sector Engagement
As part of its stakeholder engagements, IAWL visited six law firms in Ghana – AB & David Africa, B&P Associates, Bentsi-Enchill, Letsa & Ankomah, ENS Africa, n.Dowuona & Co. and Sam Okudzeto & Associates – on the 27th and 28th of June 2024. During these visits, the IAWL team engaged in comprehensive discussions about establishing reporting lines within law firms, eliminating the stigma associated with sexual harassment, amplifying the role of male allies, conducting regular training on gender issues, and reforming workplace policies related to gender bias. The discussions also touched on reassessing workplace success metrics and creating safe work environments. These discussions were enriched by questions and recommendations from each law firm, proving instrumental in raising awareness and securing commitment to support the campaign.
AB & David Africa
B&P Associates
Bentsi-Enchill, Letsa & Ankomah
ENSGhana
n. Dowuona & Co.
Sam Okudzeto & Associates
During each visit, the IAWL team presented the Gender Equality in Law Model Policy, which can be used as a reference point in drafting tailor-made gender-inclusive policies or revising existing ones accordingly. The reception of this policy was overwhelmingly positive, with many stakeholders expressing their readiness to adopt and champion its principles.
By securing the support of influential players in Ghana, IAWL is poised to make substantial progress in its Gender Equality in Law Campaign, ultimately ensuring that women in the legal profession are afforded equal opportunities and treatment.
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