Ghana is poised to introduce paternity leave as part of a comprehensive labour reform package later this year. The new law, expected to be enacted in 2024, will grant male workers the right to take time off to care for their newborns or adopted children.

Under the proposed legislation, eligible male employees will be entitled to a minimum of five days of paternity leave within three months of their wife’s or surrogate’s childbirth, or following the adoption of a child under one year old. This groundbreaking policy aims to encourage men to take an active role in childcare and support their partners during the critical early days of parenthood.

The paternity leave law is part of a broader labour reform initiative that seeks to enhance the overall well-being of workers in Ghana. The draft bill also includes significant enhancements to maternity leave provisions, increasing the minimum entitlement to 14 weeks, in addition to any annual leave.

This development is a welcome step towards creating a more inclusive and supportive work environment in Ghana. By recognizing the importance of paternal involvement in childcare, the government is promoting a cultural shift that values family and flexibility.

The implementation of the paternity leave law is expected to have numerous benefits, including:

– Improved work-life balance for male employees
– Increased paternal involvement in childcare
– Enhanced gender equality in the workplace
– Better support for new mothers and families

Ghana’s move to introduce paternity leave aligns with international best practices and follows the lead of countries like Sweden, Canada, and Kenya, which have already implemented similar policies.