The newly-elected President of the Ghana Bar Association, Efua Ghartey, has made history as the first female president of the association, a landmark achievement in Ghana’s legal profession.
Her election breaks a long-standing tradition of male leadership within the GBA, marking a pivotal moment for gender equality in the legal sector and inspiring future female leaders.
In a closely contested election, Ghartey won with 1,208 votes, defeating Kwadzo Dzakpasu, who received 1,060 votes.
Her rise to this position reflects her dedication to justice and years of service, earning her widespread respect among her peers.
Her election comes at a time when conversations about gender equality and women’s empowerment are gaining momentum across various sectors in Ghana.
Ghartey’s victory is seen as part of a growing recognition of women’s contributions to the legal profession.
Meanwhile, Baffour Gyau was elected General Secretary, Auralius Awuku became Assistant Secretary, Saviour Kodzi retained his role as Public Relations Officer (PRO), and Lawrencia Adika was chosen as Assistant PRO. The new leadership team brings fresh perspectives to the GBA’s future.
In her acceptance speech, Madam Ghartey vowed to ensure that the association would not regret choosing her but instead feel proud of their decision.
“We shall serve you with all our ability, and we shall make sure that you will never regret this choice,” she remarked.
Profile
Efua Ghartey is a distinguished legal professional and co-founder of the law firm Ghartey & Ghartey. After graduating from the University of Ghana, Legon, she was called to the bar in 1991. She also holds certificates in Basic and Advanced Securities from the Ghana Stock Exchange and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) from California State University, Sacramento, in collaboration with the University of Ghana’s Centre for International Affairs.
As a Barrister, Solicitor, and Notary Public, Efua has made significant contributions to Ghana’s legal field. She is an active member of the International Federation of Female Lawyers (FIDA), where she has held several executive positions within FIDA Ghana. Her commitment to ADR is evident in her work as a mediator in the court-connected ADR system at the Commercial Division of the High Courts.
Since 1992, Efua has held leadership roles in diverse sectors, including children’s rights, education, aviation, export financing, media, and publishing. She has served on numerous boards and committees, applying her legal expertise to a wide range of issues.
Within the Ghana Bar Association (GBA), Efua has been an active member, serving on various committees and the National Executive for a decade. She also played a key role in the Chief Justice’s Annual Mentoring Program, serving as a speaker and moderator for ten consecutive years. She recently completed her six-year term as President of the Greater Accra Branch of the GBA and has served on the National Council for a total of sixteen years.
As Head of Chambers at Ghartey & Ghartey, she oversees all practice areas, with a focus on investment law, corporate law, corporate litigation, and company law. She also leads the firm’s private client practice and has extensive litigation experience, appearing before all courts in Ghana, including the Supreme Court.
Beyond her legal work, Efua has made notable contributions to faith-based organizations. She served as Chairperson of the Global Board of the United Bible Societies Worldwide from 2016 to 2019, after seven years on the board.
In Ghana, she completed a six-year tenure as Chairperson of the Bible Society of Ghana, following fifteen years of service. She also served as Chairperson of the Board of World Vision Ghana, having been Vice Chair and a board member for nine years.
She is married to the member of parliament for Essikado and a leading member of the NPP, Joe Ghartey.
*****
Never miss out on the news. Get your valuable breaking news and other vital content by following The Sikaman Times on WhatsApp Channel
*****
