Naa Momo Lartey Pledges to Advocate for Extended Maternity Leave as Gender Minister

President John Dramani Mahama’s nominee for the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection, Naa Momo Lartey, has committed to championing improved maternity leave policies in Ghana.

During her vetting before Parliament on Wednesday, January 22, Lartey expressed her determination to work alongside gender advocates, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders to extend the current three-month maternity leave period.

Lartey emphasized that a longer maternity leave would benefit both mothers and children, offering more time for recovery and bonding.

She proposed extending maternity leave to six months, a move she believes would allow mothers to fully recover and provide better care for their newborns.

“It is important for women to have a prolonged leave period, not only to take care of the children but also to properly heal,” she said.

She further suggested that employers consider offering such leave and, where possible, extend it to six months.

Lartey also advocated for the possibility of extending parental leave to fathers, ensuring that both parents have time to bond with their newborns and share caregiving duties, which aligns with evolving family dynamics and gender equity in caregiving roles.

The nominee pledged to collaborate with key stakeholders and join existing advocates to push for a better maternity and parental leave framework in the country. “I will sit with all stakeholders, CSOs, and advocates to ensure we push for what is best for Ghana,” she affirmed, vowing to be a leading voice in this vital cause.