Bias is not normal; it hinders development – Rebecca Akufo-Addo

The First Lady, Rebecca Akufo-Addo, has called on women in Ghana and the world over to refute gender bias, which she describes as an abnormality in society.

According to her, these biases are a hindrance to development and must not be entertained.

Speaking at a forum to mark the 2022 International Women’s Day, on the theme ‘Break The Biases’, Rebecca Akufo-Addo declared that “bias is not normal…no amount of explanations, apologies or excuses can make it right…”

She proceeded to say that “your talent, intelligence, ingenuity and determination qualify you for a place at the table. Your field of endeavor does not matter, what matters is that no one should stop you.”

Quoting the American Civil Rights activist, Philip Randolph, she stated that freedom is never granted; it is won.

The First Lady said the movement for gender equality, inclusiveness and removal of biases has been a longstanding struggle many have sacrificed prominence, time, resources and even limb and life to get to this point.

However, she notes that a lot more needs to be done despite the successes chalked by predecessors.

She also observed that the popular mantra “equality before the law” still does not translate into reality when it comes to issues of gender.

She explained that women are still paid less than men for the same work and despite their enormous contributions to society, they are barely recognised. African women form the majority of farmers, educationists and health care providers, she stressed.

She added that though conflicts affect women and children most, women are not included in peace negotiations even when research shows their participation would make peace agreements more durable.

While saluting all the women and men who have worked for a world of parity, she admitted that it is time for her generation to pass on the baton to the younger ones and support their advocacy for a gender equal world with their insights, resources and years of experiences in the trenches.

“It’s time for you to negotiate your way to equality and the removal of biases. I have no doubt about your ability and hunger to do so, your voice is integral to who you are, how you use it is vital to your becoming the person you want to be. Use your voices to create the change you want”, she charged the women.