Ghana has made history with the election of Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang as the nation's first-ever female Vice President. This milestone marks a significant step forward in advancing gender representation in African politics, making Ghana the 10th African nation to achieve this feat.

Professor Opoku-Agyemang's emergence as Vice President under the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the 2024 elections is a testament to her remarkable political rise. A renowned Ghanaian academic and politician, she previously served as Minister for Education from 2013 to 2017 under President John Mahama, where she oversaw significant educational improvements. In 2020, she made history as the first woman nominated for vice-president by a major political party, the National Democratic Congress (NDC), symbolizing a commitment to gender equality.

Her success highlights the growing recognition of women's leadership and their capacity to drive impactful change in governance and society. The place of women in African politics has evolved significantly over the past few decades, with notable progress in terms of representation and influence. African women have shattered barriers, rising to prominence across the continent, with many even ascending to the highest office, serving as Presidents in countries like Liberia and Tanzania.

However, challenges remain in ensuring that women achieve equality in participation and impact. According to the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA), Africa's women's representation in parliament stands at 24%. Low female political representation is often attributed to a lack of political will, restrictive electoral systems, and deeply entrenched patriarchal norms. Nevertheless, numerous legal frameworks, instruments, and policies in Africa advocate for equal and effective participation of women in politics.

The plan to advance women's participation in politics aligns closely with the Maputo Protocol (2003), formally known as the Protocol to the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights on the Rights of Women in Africa. As Ghana becomes the 10th African nation to elect a female Vice President, it is essential to recognize the progress made and the challenges that still need to be addressed to ensure women achieve equality in participation and impact.

The list of African women who have made their mark in the highest level of governance as Vice Presidents includes Alice Nzomukunda (Burundi, 2005-2006), Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka (South Africa, 2005-2008), Specioza Wandira Kazibwe (Uganda, 1994-2003), Joyce Banda (Malawi, 2009-2012), Joice Mujuru (Zimbabwe, 2004-2014), Fatoumata Tambajang (The Gambia, 2017-2018), Inonge Wina (Zambia, 2015-2021), Samia Suluhu Hassan (Tanzania, 2015-2021), Monique Ohsan Bellepeau (Mauritius, 2012-2012), and now Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang (Ghana, 2024-present).

As Ghana celebrates this milestone, it is crucial to acknowledge the significance of Professor Opoku-Agyemang's achievement and the impact it will have on women's representation in African politics. Her success serves as a beacon of hope, inspiring future generations of women to pursue careers in politics and strive for leadership positions.

In conclusion, Ghana's election of Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang as the nation's first-ever female Vice President marks a significant milestone in advancing gender representation in African politics. As the continent continues to evolve, it is essential to recognize the progress made and the challenges that still need to be addressed to ensure women achieve equality in participation and impact.