Ghana Gets First Female Bar Association President, Efua Ghartey

The Ghana Bar Association (GBA) on Wednesday elected its first female president, Efua Gharty.

Efua Gharty defeated the immediate past president of GBA, Tony Forson, and the current president, Yaw Boafo.

The Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) president, Afam Osigwe, said the victory of Gherty marks a significant milestone in Africa’s legal profession.

Osigwe added that the GBA’s president-elect’s victory represents a beacon of progress and shattered long-standing barriers to women in the legal profession.

A statement on Afam’s X handle read: “Dear Efua Ghartey, On behalf of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and the entire legal community in Nigeria, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to you on your historic election as the first female President of the Ghana Bar Association. Your victory marks a significant milestone not only for the legal profession in Ghana but also for women across Africa who aspire to leadership positions in law, justice, and beyond.

“Your election represents a beacon of progress, demonstrating that the principles of equality, competence, and dedication can pave the way for transformative leadership in our profession. It is indeed a testament to your unwavering commitment, years of distinguished service, and your profound dedication to justice and the rule of law.

“As the first woman to hold this esteemed office, you have shattered a long-standing barrier, and your achievement serves as an inspiration to countless women within the legal profession, as well as those aspiring to lead across all sectors. You have not only exemplified excellence and integrity but have also shown that gender is no limitation to achieving greatness in leadership.

“The legal community in Nigeria celebrates your success as a victory for all lawyers, particularly women, and we look forward to working closely with you and the Ghana Bar Association under your capable leadership. Your vision and progressive approach will undoubtedly contribute to the strengthening of the legal systems in our respective countries and across the continent, fostering greater collaboration and unity among African legal bodies.

“As you embark on this remarkable journey, I am confident that your tenure will leave an indelible mark on the Ghana Bar Association, furthering its goals of promoting justice, upholding the rule of law, and advancing the welfare of all its members.

“Once again, congratulations on this well-deserved victory. May your tenure be marked by groundbreaking achievements, and may your leadership continue to inspire generations to come.”