The Chief Justice, Her Ladyship Mrs. Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo, has lauded the immense contributions of Professor Akua Kuenyehia to legal education, women’s rights, and international justice.
In an emotional tribute, during the Public Adoption of the Gender Equality in Law Model Policy and the Presentation of the Legacy Award, held on Monday, March 3, 2025, at the University of Ghana School of Law Auditorium, the Chief Justice described Professor Kuenyehia as a trailblazer whose career has been an inspiration to generations of legal professionals, particularly women in the legal profession.
“My first encounter with Professor Kuenyehia was as a starry-eyed, eager 18-year-old law student. She was our criminal law lecturer, and I deeply admired her intellect and professionalism. She epitomised intelligence, class, composure, elegance, and dignity,” Mrs. Torkornoo recounted.
Reflecting on her personal and professional journey, she credited Professor Kuenyehia as a key influence in shaping her legal career and leadership style. She particularly highlighted how the former dean of the University of Ghana School of Law demonstrated the balance between professional excellence and personal responsibilities as a mother and mentor.
“She made it look effortless, and I was left with no doubt that I, too, could aspire to achieve such a balance,” the Chief Justice remarked.
Beyond academia, Professor Kuenyehia’s leadership at FIDA Ghana and her contributions to women’s rights, including the development of Ghana’s Intestate Succession Law, were acknowledged as pivotal milestones in promoting gender equality in law.
Her appointment to the International Criminal Court (ICC), where she served for 12 years and rose to the position of Vice President, was also highlighted as an exceptional achievement that brought honour to Ghana.
Her Ladyship noted that Professor Kuenyehia’s unwavering commitment to justice had provided closure to victims of egregious human rights violations across the world. “She has represented Ghana with integrity, and her name is synonymous with excellence,” she added.
Speaking at the ceremony, Professor Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ghana, underscored the university’s commitment to gender equality and inclusivity. She highlighted the institution’s ongoing initiatives to create an equitable academic environment and eliminate barriers to women’s progress.
She also noted the importance of strategic partnerships, such as the collaboration with the Institute for African Women in Law, in broadening the impact of gender equality initiatives within the legal profession and beyond.
Professor Amfo called for collective responsibility in achieving true gender inclusion, urging faculty, students, alumni, and external stakeholders to champion initiatives that promote equality and inclusivity.
“Achieving true gender equality requires the active participation and unwavering support of every member of the University of Ghana community, as well as institutions across the continent and globally,” she emphasized.
Professor Amfo also took the opportunity to honour Professor Akua Kuenyehia, stating that her contributions to the legal profession have inspired many.
“Many of us are where we are today because we looked up to bold and audacious women like Professor Akua Kuenyehia,” Professor Amfo stated.
In her acceptance speech, Professor Akua Kuenyehia expressed deep gratitude for the honour and reflected on her journey in legal academia and advocacy. She emphasized the importance of taking responsibility for one’s ambitions and persevering in the face of challenges.
She recounted her instrumental role in securing funding and support for the construction of a new law faculty building at the University of Ghana, demonstrating the power of creativity, strategic investment, and collaboration. She urged alumni to continue supporting the institution’s development, including its latest ultra-modern law school project.
Professor Kuenyehia acknowledged the hurdles she faced, particularly as a woman in leadership, but stressed that courage and mentorship are vital in breaking barriers. She emphasized that leadership is not just about making decisions but about nurturing future generations and creating a lasting impact.
She also took a moment to appreciate the unwavering support of her husband and family, acknowledging the challenges of balancing family life with an illustrious career.
“I have seen extraordinary women rise to leadership in this country, and I am truly happy to witness this progress,” she remarked.
Also present at the event were the Dean of the University of Ghana School of Law, Prof. Raymond Atuguba; the President of the Ghana Bar Association, Mrs. Efua Ghartey; and the immediate past Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Mrs. Diana Asonaba Dapaah.
