In a landmark moment for gender equity in Ghana’s legal profession, Efua Ghartey has been elected as the first-ever female president of the Ghana Bar Association (GBA). The highly respected lawyer, co-founder of Ghartey & Ghartey, and an expert in Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), secured the position during the GBA congress held on Wednesday, September 11. Ghartey polled 1,278 votes, defeating her closest competitor, Agbesi Dzakpasu, who garnered 1,060 votes.
With a legal career spanning over three decades, Ghartey has established herself as a formidable force in Ghana’s legal landscape. She has served as a lawyer, solicitor, and notary public since 1992 and has held significant positions across various industries, including media, aviation, and education. Her expertise extends to company law, investment law, and corporate litigation.
Ghartey’s leadership journey within the GBA has been long and dedicated. She served as a member of the National Executive for ten years and was a key figure in numerous committees within the association. Notably, she played a vital role as the moderator and speaker for the Chief Justice’s Annual Mentoring Programme, which began in 2007. Ghartey also completed a six-year term as the president of the GBA’s Greater Accra Branch, further solidifying her reputation as a trailblazer.
Her path to victory, however, wasn’t without its challenges. After two unsuccessful attempts to win the national presidency, Ghartey’s perseverance finally paid off. Her historic achievement symbolizes a breakthrough not only for women in the legal profession but also for broader conversations about gender equity in leadership roles.
Beyond her contributions to the GBA, Ghartey’s impact stretches across international borders. As an advocate for women’s rights, she served as an executive member of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA). Her humanitarian work includes serving on the boards of organizations such as World Vision Ghana and the United Bible Societies.
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Efua Ghartey’s election comes at a significant time for Ghana, coinciding with the nation’s recent passage of the Affirmative Action Gender Equity Bill, aimed at enhancing women’s participation in various sectors. Her new role as GBA president is seen as a major step forward in this broader movement towards inclusivity.
Ghana’s President, Nana Akufo-Addo, expressed his excitement over Ghartey’s achievement, calling it a “powerful statement” about the progress Ghana is making in gender equality. In a social media post, he congratulated Ghartey and highlighted the importance of her victory, both as a member of the legal profession and as a symbol of the nation’s commitment to gender inclusiveness.
Ghartey’s election not only marks a personal triumph for her but serves as a powerful inspiration for women across Ghana and beyond, demonstrating the growing opportunities for women to lead in historically male-dominated fields. As she steps into this role, her leadership is expected to bring fresh perspectives and continued progress for the Ghana Bar Association.
