Elections

The right to vote and the right to stand for election are two fundamental elements of democracy. Notably, many countries did not afford women the right to vote until the 20th Century. Even today, universal suffrage is not a given right in all countries, and women often face obstacles that undermine their participation in political and electoral processes. There are various ways to support women in overcoming these obstacles. Such methods include revising the electoral system used, applying affirmative action mechanisms such as quotas, improving voter education for women and training political candidates. These are a few of the modes available to strengthen women’s political participation .Photo©Jens Franssen

Fighting for change: why the road to parliament is still rocky for women across Africa

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January 9, 2025

Fighting for change: why the road to parliament is still rocky for women across Africa

This year, 18 of Africa’s 54 countries went to the polls for presidential or general elections, making 2024 a significant year on the continent.

January 9, 2025

Ghana’s First Female Vice President: A Trailblazer in Leadership and Inspiration

Ghana made history when the National Democratic Congress (NDC) nominated Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang as the running mate to former President John Dramani Mahama for the 2020 general elections.

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January 8, 2025

Activists call for credible elections, women participation in politics

In recognition of the gender gap in political representation, the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) Nigeria has expressed support for the passage of a bill before the National Assembly to reserve special seats in national and state legislatures for women.

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January 8, 2025

African women celebrate as Ghana swears in first female Vice President

Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has officially assumed the role of Vice President of Ghana following her swearing-in on Tuesday.

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January 6, 2025

Women in Botswana make up 54% of voters, but less than 10% of parliament: political parties can change that

Only 28 women stood for parliament out of 258 contestants, representing 10.85 per cent. Only three women won their seats. This represents 4.92 per cent of the 61 seats. It’s a drop from 5.26 per cent in the 2019 elections.

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