Ghanaian Women Navigate Structural Barriers in Creative Arts and Lead Grassroots Clean Energy Initiatives

Ghanaian women are currently confronting significant systemic barriers in the creative arts while simultaneously spearheading innovative grassroots solutions in the energy sector. Recent reports and academic findings highlight a complex landscape where the drive for gender equity intersects with the urgent need for socio-economic development and environmental sustainability. While a new study exposes the pervasive nature of sexual harassment within the nation's creative landscape, a parallel movement in sustainable energy demonstrates the transformative power of women when they are positioned as leaders and decision-makers in their communities.

In the creative sector, research titled "Behind the Scenes (BtS): Young Women and Gender-Based Inequities in Africa’s Creative Sector" has revealed a troubling reality for female practitioners. Conducted by the University of Cape Coast with support from the International Centre for Research on Women, the study documents rampant sexual harassment and persistent gender discrimination faced by young women. Despite these hostile conditions, the research indicates that many women remain determined to pursue careers in the arts. These findings have prompted urgent calls for stakeholders to move beyond merely identifying problems and toward establishing safe, supportive environments and equitable treatment for all creative professionals.

Simultaneously, the energy sector is seeing a shift where women are transitioning from being primary victims of energy poverty to becoming active entrepreneurs. While women represent only 25% of jobs in public energy utilities and female-headed households remain disproportionately reliant on charcoal, grassroots initiatives are beginning to bridge this gap. In the North Dayi District, for instance, women are converting coconut husks into clean briquettes with support from the Africa Just Transition Network and EcoClub 360. This initiative not only aligns with Ghana’s climate adaptation goals but also showcases the potential for economic empowerment when women are integrated into the clean energy value chain.

For Ghana to achieve a truly inclusive and sustainable future, the recognition of women as central leaders across all industries is essential. Addressing the structural inequities in the creative industry and providing women with the necessary resources to lead the clean energy transition are two sides of the same coin. As these sectors evolve, the active participation of women—supported by robust policy frameworks and dedicated advocacy—will be the defining factor in ensuring that Ghana’s progress is both equitable and lasting.