Accra, Ghana, October 25, 2026: The Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Hon. Dr Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, has called for stronger Canada–Africa cooperation to expand women’s access to finance, markets and economic opportunities, stressing the need to address structural barriers to women’s economic participation.
She made the call during a panel discussion at the Canada–Africa Policy Roundtable and Reception in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, held under the theme, “Building Inclusive African Economies: Advancing Canada–Africa Cooperation on Finance, Trade and Economic Opportunity”.
The engagement formed part of the Egumeni Dialogue, a platform for policy discussions and partnerships between Africa and its international partners.
Hon. Dr Agnes Naa Momo Lartey said inclusive economic development must go beyond increased investment and expanded trade to tackle the barriers that prevent women from participating fully in economic activities.
She highlighted Canada’s support for initiatives in Ghana, including the Making Trade Work for Women in West Africa project, the Enhancing Market Participation and Learning Opportunities for Young Women (EMPLOY) project, and the Climate Resilient Livelihoods for Women in Northern Ghana (CLIMB) project.
Three priorities for cooperation
The Minister outlined three key areas for further Canada–Africa cooperation: expanding access to affordable finance and investment for women-owned enterprises, strengthening women’s participation in regional and international trade, and investing in skills development, technology, childcare, social protection and safe workplaces.
She also identified the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as an opportunity to connect women-owned businesses to larger markets and regional value chains.
However, she stressed that women entrepreneurs need support to meet product standards, obtain certification, adopt digital commerce and connect with buyers and investors to benefit from these opportunities.
The Minister said women’s economic empowerment requires an integrated approach that combines financial support with skills development, market access and measures to address structural inequalities.
She noted that these interventions are essential to helping women sustain their businesses and take advantage of emerging economic opportunities.
Hon. Dr Agnes Naa Momo Lartey reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to partnerships that combine finance, trade, technical expertise and investment to help women-owned businesses grow, create jobs and contribute to economic development.
