Women as Leaders: A Call to Action on IMD 2025

Women in Politics: A Vision for a Better Future

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Reflections on Women’s Political Leadership and Ghana’s Historic Milestone

Many years ago, I had the privilege of attending the National Women’s Conference in Abuja. Organized to inspire women to participate in politics, the event was hosted by the then Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, Josephine Anini. The distinguished guest of honour was the then first lady of the republic of Nigeria Her Excellency, Dame Patience Goodluck Jonathan, and in attendance were the wives of governors, senators, and other legislators.

As a foreigner married to a Nigerian, I was struck by the sheer level of protocol at the event. Coming from a background far removed from politics, I found it both fascinating and overwhelming. My own tribe—the Creoles of Sierra Leone—believes that academics should steer clear of politics, a notion deeply ingrained in my upbringing. Yet, I’ve always held a personal belief that anyone with a genuine heart for the people and a vision for progress should be encouraged to step into leadership, regardless of their background.

Inspirational Women Leaders

The conference offered a platform to hear from remarkable women, two of whom left a lasting impression on me.

The first was a member of the House of Representatives. Unfortunately, I don’t recall her name, but she sat among the dignitaries on the high table. Her speech was a rallying cry—not for politics as usual, but for women to step into their power, intelligence, and purpose. She emphasized that, given the opportunity, women could lead Nigeria to greatness. Her words were profoundly inspiring.

The second speaker was Nigeria’s only female Deputy Senator. Despite my jetlag from arriving in Abuja at 4:30 a.m. that day, her story captivated me. She spoke of her journey from community leadership to councillorship and finally to her current position as a senator's running mate. She stressed the importance of balancing political ambition with the responsibilities of being a wife and mother. Her message was clear: behind every successful woman in politics is a supportive partner unafraid of her ambition.

The Case for Gender Equality in Politics

This brings me to the crux of my reflection. A speaker at the conference made an assertion that strongly resonates with me -  for every male position in government, there should be a female equivalent. Such balance is vital for effective governance, much like the balance required in a home—a microcosm of government. Men and women bring complementary strengths to decision-making.

For instance, while men often focus on the destination, women pay attention to the journey. If a man hears that a baby has been born, he might ask only whether it’s a boy or a girl. A woman, on the other hand, will ask about the baby’s weight, the mother’s health, the nature of the delivery, and even how the family is adjusting. This nuanced perspective is precisely why both genders must work together in leadership to create a holistic and thriving government.

I commended  His Excellency, Goodluck Jonathan, who was the president then for advocating 35% female representation in politics. However, this is just the beginning. We must aim higher.

A Dream of Equality

I have a dream too.

I dream of a future where every political position has both a male and female counterpart, and no decision is finalized without mutual agreement. I dream of a world where men and women share equal responsibility for governance, fostering a safe and prosperous environment for all. In this future, women’s issues will no longer be relegated to global organizations like the UN. Instead, women in positions of power will ensure that problems such as rape in Congo and Sudan, child marriage, and women’s rights are treated with the same urgency as climate change or economic crises.

I dream of a time when men recognize women as invaluable partners—beyond the superficial—acknowledging that women’s intuition and negotiation skills are indispensable. I dream of a world where women no longer have to fight for basic rights such as shelter, food, and welfare after the loss of a husband or a divorce.

The world will only improve when men stop feeling threatened by women’s abilities. A woman understands the need for a man’s strong, decisive leadership, but too few men recognize the treasure of a woman’s nurturing and problem-solving skills. Together, they can create a better society.

Women as Leaders: A Call to Action

A woman will wake in the middle of the night to check on her children and husband, ensuring their comfort and safety. She will plan the next day’s meals, walk miles for clean water, and juggle farm work with selling produce to provide for her family. Is running a nation truly beyond her capacity? Absolutely not.

While a man might focus on acquiring cars, houses, and wealth, a woman thinks about good roads, clean water, universal education, adequate food and clothing, and stable electricity. Her vision for a nation mirrors her vision for a thriving home: when the people are happy, the government succeeds.

So, I say: Go, women! Make us proud. If God had intended women to have no role in leadership, He would have left them as a rib inside man. Instead, He brought women out to stand alongside men, to work together in creating a better world.

Women Leaders in Africa: A Transformative Force

Women leaders in Africa have played a transformative role in shaping the continent's political, social, and economic landscapes. Their contributions span various sectors, including politics, business, social activism, and community development. They have driven change, broken barriers, and inspired future generations.

Political Leadership

Africa has seen a rise in women breaking the glass ceiling in politics, despite persistent gender inequalities. Prominent examples include:

• Ellen Johnson Sirleaf: The first elected female president in Africa, serving as President of Liberia from 2006 to 2018. She is widely celebrated for stabilizing Liberia after years of civil war and promoting women's empowerment.

• Samia Suluhu Hassan: The current President of Tanzania, the first woman to hold the office. Her leadership has been marked by efforts to boost economic growth and gender equity.

• Joyce Banda: Former President of Malawi (2012–2014), who focused on women’s rights, economic empowerment, and health reforms during her tenure.

In addition to heads of state, African women have taken key roles in international diplomacy. Figures like Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the first African and first woman to lead the World Trade Organization, demonstrate African women's influence on global policy.

Business and Entrepreneurship

African women are dynamic contributors to business and entrepreneurship. For instance:

• Folorunso Alakija (Nigeria): One of the wealthiest women in Africa, known for her success in oil, fashion, and philanthropy.

• Rebecca Enonchong (Cameroon): A prominent technology entrepreneur and founder of AppsTech, known for her advocacy for startups and innovation in Africa.

Women-led businesses, especially in agriculture and trade, sustain millions of families and contribute significantly to GDP in many African countries.

Social Activism and Advocacy

Women leaders in Africa have been central to championing human rights, peacebuilding, and development:

• Leymah Gbowee: A Liberian peace activist and Nobel Peace Prize laureate who mobilized women to help end Liberia’s civil war through nonviolent activism.

• Wangari Maathai: A Kenyan environmentalist and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, known for founding the Green Belt Movement, which promotes environmental conservation and women's rights.

These leaders have inspired movements across the continent to fight for equality, environmental sustainability, and social justice.

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Ghana’s Historic Milestone: Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang

In January 2025, Ghana achieved a historic milestone by electing its first female Vice President, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang. She was sworn into office on January 7, 2025, alongside President John Dramani Mahama, marking a significant advancement in gender representation within the nation’s political leadership.

Professor Opoku-Agyemang brings a wealth of experience to the Vice Presidency. Prior to her appointment, she served as Ghana's Minister for Education from 2013 to 2017, where she implemented transformative reforms aimed at improving the quality and accessibility of education across the country. Notably, she introduced the Inclusive Education Policy in 2015, ensuring that children with special needs could access quality education alongside their peers.

In addition to her role as Vice President, Professor Opoku-Agyemang has appointed a new team to key positions in the Office of the Vice President, underscoring Ghana’s commitment to promoting gender equality and empowering women in leadership roles.

Conclusion

Women leaders are undeniably reshaping Africa’s future. By rising to leadership positions and advocating for equality, they are not only changing policies but also challenging societal norms. Their journeys exemplify resilience, and their impact continues to inspire generations to come. It’s time to give women the chance they deserve to lead, to empower, and to transform society.