Naa Momo Lartey Vows to Champion Longer Maternity Leave as Gender Minister
Accra, Ghana - 22 Jan, 2025 - Minister-Designate for Gender, Children, and Social Protection, Naa Momo Lartey, has vowed to push for an extension of the country's maternity leave period. Currently set at three months, the nominee believes a longer leave period is essential for the well-being of mothers and children.
During her parliamentary vetting, Naa Momo Lartey advocated for a more progressive approach, suggesting employers consider offering six months' leave to allow mothers to recover and care for their newborns. She also proposed extending parental leave to fathers, promoting shared caregiving responsibilities and greater gender equality.
The nominee pledged to collaborate with stakeholders, including civil society organizations and gender advocates, to drive this policy change. With Ghana's current maternity leave policy falling short of international standards, Naa Momo Lartey's commitment may signal a significant shift in the country's approach to supporting new mothers.
“I will sit with all stakeholders, CSOs who are deep into it, and I will join the many advocates to look at what is best and ensure that we push it. If the people of Ghana agree to it, then I will be the number one champion,'' she stated.
Source: Lead News Online
