In a significant move to support new parents, former President John Dramani Mahama, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, has pledged to introduce a one-week paternity leave for married men and extend maternity leave from three to four months if elected in December’s elections.
This announcement was made at the NDC Women’s Manifesto launch in Kumasi, the Ashanti Regional capital.
Background of the Policy
He said the initiative aims to ensure newborns receive adequate care during their early development stages, emphasizing the importance of both parents’ involvement in childcare.
To qualify for paternity leave, men must provide proof of their marital status, limiting the benefit to legally married couples.
Mr Mahama clarified, “Whereas the mother gets four months maternity leave, the father of the child will also get a paternity leave of up to a week… But as a man, you must provide evidence that the woman is your wife”.
-BY Daniel Bampoe