Hon. Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, Member of Parliament for the Krowor Constituency and Minister for Gender, Children, and Social Protection, has expressed her unwavering commitment to delivering impactful policies and programs aimed at enhancing the well-being of Ghanaians.
Speaking during an engagement, Dr. Lartey acknowledged the enormity of her ministry’s responsibilities, describing it as pivotal to the general welfare of the nation. She emphasized that His Excellency John Dramani Mahama’s vision for Ghanaians is clear, particularly regarding the protection of children, advancing social protection, and improving programs such as the School Feeding Programme.
“The President is committed to ensuring the decentralization of the School Feeding Programme so that all children can enjoy quality meals. As he has often charged us, if you cannot feed the food to yourself or your own children, you should not serve it to others. This underscores the emphasis on quality, and I intend to uphold that standard,” she stated.
Dr. Lartey outlined her ambitious 120-day action plan, highlighting key initiatives she intends to prioritize:
1. Free Tertiary Education for Persons with Disabilities
She revealed ongoing collaboration with the Ministry of Education to ensure the implementation of free tertiary education for persons with disabilities. This, she believes, will empower marginalized groups and promote inclusivity in higher education.
2. Establishment of the Women’s Development Bank
Plans to establish the Women’s Development Bank are at an advanced stage. Dr. Lartey is confident that this initiative, which aims to provide financial support and resources to women, will be operational soon.
3. Provision of Sanitary Pads for Schoolgirls
Addressing issues related to women and girls, Dr. Lartey is partnering with the Ministry of Education to ensure the provision of sanitary pads for schoolgirls, reducing absenteeism and improving their academic performance.
Dr. Lartey emphasized that her ministry is uniquely positioned to collaborate with other sectors to achieve these goals. “The Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection is inherently multi-sectoral. To bring the President’s vision to fruition, we are working closely with other ministries, such as Trade and Agriculture, to ensure holistic development for the benefit of women, children, men, and all Ghanaians,” she noted.
She reiterated that there is no room for complacency, stressing the importance of hard work and accountability in meeting the overwhelming mandate given to them by the people. “This is not business as usual. There are no excuses. We must deliver results because that is the trust God and Ghanaians have placed in us,” she declared.
Dr. Lartey also shared her gratitude for the spiritual guidance and encouragement from her General Superintendent, who urged her not to fail. “By the grace of God, we will not fail. We will continue to support the President and work tirelessly to achieve the vision he has set for the nation,” she concluded.
This resolute approach by Dr. Lartey signals a renewed focus on impactful governance and tangible results, with a commitment to improving the lives of every Ghanaian.
Story by: Mercy Addai Turkson #ahotoronline.com
