Accra: Women's participation in Ghanaian politics did not begin recently. Since Ghana gained independence and became a republic in 1960, women have played a significant role in shaping the country's democracy and constitutional development.
According to Ghana Web, in 1960, Ghana witnessed the entry of its first 10 women into Parliament following the passage of the Representation of the People (Women Members) Bill. These trailblazing women were elected unopposed on the ticket of the Convention People's Party (CPP) to represent newly created women's seats in the 104-member National Assembly.
One of these pioneering women was Susanna Al-Hassan, a Ghanaian author and politician born on November 27, 1927. She entered Parliament representing the Northern Region, and in 1961, made history by becoming Ghana's first female minister. Her roles included Deputy Minister of Education and Minister of Social Affairs.
Sophia Margaret Oboshie Doku was another trailblazer. A trained teacher and politician, she represented the Greater Accra Region. Before her parliamentary career, she contributed to social welfare and was a founding member of the United Gold Coast Convention (UGCC).
Cecelia Ayanori Bukari-Yakubu served as a Member of Parliament for the Northern and Upper Regions, later representing Pusiga. She was among the first women elected under the Representation of the People (Women Members) Act.
Lucy Anin, born on June 13, 1939, represented the Brong Ahafo Region and later the Bechem constituency. She is the only surviving member from Ghana's first Parliament, having endured imprisonment during her tenure.
Mary Winifred Koranteng, a civil servant and politician, began her career as a dressmaker. She served as an MP from 1960 to 1966, representing the Eastern Region and Swedru-Achiase.
Comfort Asamoah represented the Ashanti Region and later Asante Mampong. Before her political career, she was involved with the Workers Brigade.
Christiana Wilmot, born on July 24, 1915, was involved in the civil service and politics, serving as an MP and contributing to various social welfare initiatives.
Regina Asamany, representing the Volta Region, served as Deputy Minister of Labour and Social Welfare. Her career began at the Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare.
Victoria Nyarko, a civil servant, began her political journey as an education officer and later served as an MP for the Northern Region.
Grace Ayensu, though less documented, was a pioneering figure representing the Eastern Region, marking an important step for women's representation in Ghanaian politics.
Together, these women formed the historic group of the first 10 female Members of Parliament in Ghana, paving the way for greater female participation in the country's political leadership.