Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, the running mate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has voiced her concerns about the lack of inclusivity in the planning and construction of AstroTurfs across Ghana. Speaking at a gender empowerment series held at the Labadi Beach Hotel on Monday, November 18, she underscored the importance of incorporating diverse perspectives, particularly those of women and girls, in public infrastructure projects.
The event, which focused on “Advancing Gender Equality: A National Dialogue on Current Policies and Innovative Measures for Local and National Impact,” provided a platform for Prof. Opoku-Agyemang to address the intersection of infrastructure development and gender equality. Her remarks emphasized how the absence of inclusive decision-making perpetuates systemic inequalities and limits opportunities for certain segments of the population.
Using the construction of AstroTurfs as an example, she highlighted the glaring oversight in the planning process. “I see beautiful AstroTurfs dotted all over our country, and I don’t have issues against that, but I ask myself, is gender sensitivity a consideration? I have not seen a single girl on any of those AstroTurfs and I ask why that is the case,” she remarked. Her observation shed light on the lack of female participation in activities hosted on these facilities and raised critical questions about whose needs these projects are designed to serve.
The former Minister of Education further questioned whether women and girls were consulted during the planning stages of such projects. She noted that their input could have shaped the design, schedules, and activities of these facilities to better cater to their interests. “Were women part of the discussion before they [the AstroTurfs] were built to know what games women would want to play and what time women had for play?” she asked. Her questions highlighted the need for a more deliberate effort to ensure that infrastructure projects promote equality rather than reinforce existing disparities.
Prof. Opoku-Agyemang’s comments drew attention to a broader issue: the persistent exclusion of women and girls in conversations that shape public spaces. She argued that such exclusion reflects deeper systemic inequalities that limit their participation in various aspects of social and economic life. “As we look into the future, I urge all of us to reflect on the spaces that we create to foster equal opportunities for both genders,” she said. Her call for reflection underscored the importance of designing spaces that cater to the diverse needs of all individuals.
While acknowledging the aesthetic appeal and utility of AstroTurfs, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang stressed the need for a gender-sensitive approach to infrastructure development. She noted that prioritizing inclusivity could lead to more equitable outcomes and enhance the social and economic benefits of such projects. By involving women and girls in the planning process, policymakers can ensure that public spaces serve as platforms for empowerment rather than barriers to participation.
Her remarks also touched on the broader implications of gender-insensitive infrastructure. Public projects that fail to consider the needs of women and girls can inadvertently reinforce stereotypes and limit opportunities for their growth and development. By contrast, inclusive projects can serve as catalysts for change, fostering a sense of belonging and equality among all members of society.
Prof. Opoku-Agyemang’s critique is a call to action for policymakers, planners, and stakeholders involved in public infrastructure development. It highlights the need for a paradigm shift in how such projects are conceived and executed. Her message resonates beyond the context of AstroTurfs, challenging decision-makers to adopt a more inclusive approach to development that prioritizes the voices and needs of marginalized groups.
As the dialogue on gender equality continues, her remarks serve as a reminder of the work that remains to be done. Achieving true equality requires more than policies and rhetoric—it demands intentional actions that address the structural barriers hindering progress. By championing inclusivity in infrastructure development, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang has set the stage for a more equitable future, where public spaces are designed to benefit everyone, regardless of gender.
Her comments have sparked conversations about the role of gender in public planning and the need for systemic change. They also serve as a challenge to leaders and institutions to rethink their approach to development and prioritize inclusivity in all aspects of governance. Through her advocacy, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang continues to inspire a vision of Ghana where equality is not just an ideal but a reality that shapes every facet of society.
