Ghana becomes 10th African nation to elect a female Vice President

Prof Opoku-Agyemang’s emergence as Vice president under the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the 2024 elections has been hailed as a milestone in advancing gender representation in Ghana.

Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang is a renowned Ghanaian academic and politician.

As Minister for Education (2013-2017) under President John Mahama, she oversaw significant educational improvements.

In 2020, she made history as the first woman nominated for vice-president by a major political party, the National Democratic Congress (NDC), symbolizing a commitment to gender equality.

Professor Opoku-Agyemang’s rise to prominence in the challenging sphere of African politics underscores the remarkable resilience and capability of women to navigate and excel within complex political landscapes.

Her success highlights the growing recognition of women’s leadership and their capacity to drive impactful change in governance and society.

The place of women in African politics has evolved significantly over the past few decades, with notable progress in terms of representation and influence.

However, challenges remain in ensuring that women achieve equality in participation and impact.

According to the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA) Africa’s women’s representation in parliament stands at 24%.

Low female political representation is often attributed to a lack of political will, restrictive electoral systems, and deeply entrenched patriarchal norms.

However, numerous legal frameworks, instruments, and policies in Africa advocate for equal and effective participation of women in politics.

The plan to advance women’s participation in politics aligns closely with the Maputo Protocol (2003), formally known as the Protocol to the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights on the Rights of Women in Africa.

African women have shattered barriers in governance, as evidenced by those who have risen to prominent leadership positions across the continent.

Many have even ascended to the highest office, serving as Presidents in countries like Liberia and Tanzania.

The list below shows the African women who have made their mark in the highest level of governance as Vice president.