Accra: The Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection, Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, has called on transport leaders to champion gender equality within their sector and communities. She stated that transport leaders are key influencers with the capacity to effect meaningful change in households and workplaces. The Minister made this call in a speech read on her behalf at a Training of Trainers session held in Accra.
According to Ghana News Agency, the training was convened by the Department of Gender with support from the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), bringing together male representatives from various transport unions. The session focused on gender equality, sexual and reproductive health rights (SRHR), and efforts to end sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) in the transport sector. Dr. Lartey emphasized that leadership and support from transport union members present an opportunity to shift attitudes and challenge harmful social norms and ideas about gender equality.
Dr. Lartey noted that gender equality is fundamental to building a just society where individuals can thrive regardless of gender or intersectionality. She stressed that it involves not only protecting women's rights but also creating a fair world for all. She highlighted the persistent disparities in socio-economic participation of women and girls, compounded by structural and cultural barriers such as patriarchy.
The Minister mentioned that the Ministry had launched several initiatives to actively involve men and boys in gender advocacy efforts. With UNFPA's support, a National Framework and Toolkit for Engaging Men and Boys on ending SGBV was developed. Dr. Emmily Naphambo, UNFPA Deputy Representative to Ghana, added that engaging men and boys is vital to tackling issues such as SGBV and equitable access to opportunities.
Mr. Olympio Peku, Vice Chairman of Tudu Welfare, Ghana Road Transport Union (GPRTU), pledged to help union members benefit from the training and support change in the sector. Mr. Famous Abotsi, Deputy Advisor of the Commercial National Motor Riders Union, Greater Accra Region, encouraged women to pursue careers in male-dominated industries with confidence and determination.
