Former Minister for Gender, Children, and Social Protection, Dakoa Newman, has called on the government to urgently implement the Affirmative Action Bill to create more opportunities for women in sports.
The former Okaikwei South MP made this appeal while congratulating Abigail Quartey on becoming Ghana’s first female boxing champion.
Abigail’s achievement was highlighted in a documentary by JoySports’ Haruna Mubarak, titled Abigail Quartey: Her Gloves, Her Glory. She attributed her success to hard work, specifically dedicating four hours to training daily.
Reacting to her accomplishment, Newman described Abigail’s victory in the male-dominated sport as inspiring and commendable.
“Quartey’s victory significantly advances women’s empowerment and gender equity in Ghana, highlighting the need for government support for women in sports,” she stated.
She further urged the government to prioritize the implementation of the Affirmative Action Act, 2024, emphasizing its potential to expand opportunities for women in sports and other fields.
The 28-year-old boxer secured her title after dominating British opponent Sangeeta Birdi with a series of punches and uppercuts, making her Ghana’s first female world titleholder and the country’s 11th boxing champion in history.
Beyond being a personal triumph, Abigail’s success serves as an inspiration to young women across Ghana. She cemented her legacy in November by winning the Women’s International Boxing Federation (WIBF) title.
During her tenure as Minister, Newman played a key role in ensuring the passage of the Affirmative Action Bill by Parliament in August 2024 to promote women’s empowerment and create opportunities across all sectors.
“The first schedule of the Affirmative Action Bill calls for a 30% representation, with a gradual increase to 50%. Implementing this bill will be a major victory for women,” she added.
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