Dorcas Affo-Toffey, the Deputy Minister-designate for Transport, has expressed her commitment to championing the increased representation of women in Ghana’s transport sector. Recognizing the sector as traditionally male-dominated, she highlighted the persistent barriers that prevent women from accessing key operational and leadership positions. Affo-Toffey emphasized the need for deliberate policies and initiatives to dismantle these barriers and create a more inclusive environment where women can thrive and contribute meaningfully to the industry. She pledged to collaborate with the sector minister, Joseph Bukari Nikpe, to develop specific programs that would encourage and support women’s entry and advancement within the transport sector.
The Deputy Minister-designate’s focus on promoting women’s participation stems from her observation of the significant gender imbalance prevalent across various aspects of the transport industry. From port operations to licensing, men predominantly occupy positions of power and influence, leaving limited opportunities for women to ascend the ranks or contribute their perspectives and skills. Affo-Toffey aims to address this disparity by advocating for policies and programs that empower women to overcome these obstacles and become active participants in the sector’s growth and development.
Affo-Toffey believes that increasing women’s participation in the transport sector is not simply a matter of achieving gender equality; it is also a strategic imperative for national development. By tapping into the untapped potential of women, Ghana can strengthen its transport infrastructure, improve service delivery, and enhance overall economic productivity. A more diverse and inclusive workforce can bring fresh perspectives, innovative solutions, and enhanced leadership capabilities to address the complex challenges facing the transport sector. Furthermore, empowering women economically through increased access to opportunities in the transport industry can have positive ripple effects on their families and communities, contributing to broader social and economic progress.
To achieve her vision of a more inclusive transport sector, Affo-Toffey plans to introduce targeted initiatives designed to attract and support women. These initiatives might include mentorship programs, specialized training opportunities, access to finance and resources, and networking platforms that connect women with industry leaders and potential employers. Additionally, she may advocate for policy changes that create a more level playing field for women, such as quotas for women’s representation in leadership roles or incentives for companies that promote gender diversity within their workforce.
Affo-Toffey’s commitment to empowering women in the transport sector aligns with broader global efforts to promote gender equality and women’s economic empowerment. International organizations such as the United Nations and the World Bank have recognized the importance of women’s equal participation in all sectors of the economy, including transport. These organizations have emphasized the need for countries to adopt policies and programs that address gender-specific barriers and promote women’s access to education, skills development, and leadership opportunities.
The Deputy Minister-designate’s pledge to prioritize women’s participation in the transport sector signifies a positive step towards creating a more inclusive and equitable industry in Ghana. By implementing targeted initiatives and advocating for policy changes, Affo-Toffey aims to break down the barriers that have historically limited women’s opportunities in the sector. Her efforts hold the potential to unlock the untapped potential of women, strengthen the transport industry’s performance, and contribute to Ghana’s overall socio-economic development. The success of these initiatives will depend on strong collaboration between government, industry stakeholders, and women’s organizations to create a supportive environment where women can thrive and contribute meaningfully to the future of the transport sector.
