Accra: Madam Lydia Lamisi Akanvariba, Minister of State for Public Sector Reforms, has called for the urgent implementation of the Comprehensive Gender Strategy within the public sector. The five-year Comprehensive Gender Strategy for the Public Sector (CGSPS 2024-28), initially slated for implementation last year, faced delays due to unforeseen circumstances.

According to Ghana News Agency, the Minister emphasized the importance of the Strategy during the inauguration of the Technical Coordinating Group in Accra. She noted that it is crucial for harmonizing gender strategies and policies within the public sector, thereby preventing duplication and inconsistencies. The Strategy aims to achieve gender balance in staffing and leadership, promote a respectful and supportive work environment, and safeguard employee well-being and safety.

The Strategy also focuses on building capacity for career progression, delivering gender-sensitive public services, and measuring progress on gender equity. The Minister remarked that the inauguration of the committee marks a significant milestone towards a more inclusive and responsive public service, highlighting the collective commitment to dismantling systemic barriers.

The committee, chaired by Madam Akanvariba with Mrs. Elizabeth Ohene-Yeboah as Vice Chair, comprises several key figures from various government departments. With a year already lost on the implementation timeline, the Minister stressed the need for the committee to expedite its activities to meet the Strategy’s objectives by 2028.

Madam Akanvariba assured the committee of the ministry’s full support, including revenue mobilization efforts, and expressed her intention to closely monitor the committee’s progress through regular updates. Mrs. Obeng-Yeboah, the Vice Chair, pledged that the committee’s work would align with existing laws, such as the Affirmative Action law, to avoid duplication and ensure effective implementation.