The Ghana Women's Movement has announced plans to stage a demonstration in Accra on September 29, 2026, to demand greater protection for women's rights, freedom of expression, and political participation. The protest, dubbed the "Women's Voices Matter Demonstration," will bring together women from various sectors, including politics, markets, salons, dressmaking shops, offices, and households. Male sympathizers have also been invited to participate in the demonstration.
The movement expressed concern about the increasing intimidation, arrest, remand, and imprisonment of Ghanaian women over the exercise of their right to free expression. In a statement issued on September 22, 2026, the movement said women had the constitutional right to express their opinions, participate in politics, criticize the government, and demand accountability without fear of intimidation or arrest.
The demonstration will present a petition to Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, outlining the movement's concerns and demands concerning dignity, equality, freedom of expression, women's empowerment, and equal treatment. The group is also demanding the full implementation of the Affirmative Action (Gender Equity) Act, 2024, particularly provisions intended to increase women's representation and participation in decision-making.
The movement further called for enhanced economic opportunities for Ghanaian women, including improved access to capital, employment, and support for businesses. The demonstration is scheduled to begin at 6 am at Opera Square in Accra. The conveners of the demonstration include Janet Asana Nabla, Chairperson of the People's National Party, and Betty Akuffo Amoabeng, Chairperson and Leader of the National Democratic Party.
Elizabeth Sam, running mate of the Liberal Party of Ghana, and Akosua Asaa Manu, Advisor on Gender and Social Protection to the New Patriotic Party's flagbearer, are also part of the conveners. Other conveners include Grace Akosua Amoabeng, spokesperson for the Gender and Social Protection Committee, as well as representatives of market women, hairdressers, and dressmakers.
The Ghana Women's Movement stated that they do not want promises, but rather implementation of the laws and policies that protect women's rights. The movement emphasized that women cannot remain silent while other women are arrested, detained, and imprisoned for speaking their minds.
The demonstration aims to bring attention to the plight of women in Ghana and to push for the implementation of policies that promote gender equality and protect women's rights. The movement's demands include the protection of women's rights, freedom of expression, and equal treatment.
Key points
- The Ghana Women's Movement will stage a demonstration in Accra on September 29, 2026, to demand greater protection for women's rights and freedom of expression.
- The movement is demanding the full implementation of the Affirmative Action (Gender Equity) Act, 2024, to increase women's representation and participation in decision-making.
- The demonstration aims to bring attention to the plight of women in Ghana and push for the implementation of policies that promote gender equality and protect women's rights.
