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A proposed bill has been submitted to Ghana’s Parliament aimed at enhancing parental leave policies in the country. The bill, if passed, would bring significant changes to the current maternity and paternity leave provisions under the Labour Act.
Regarding maternity leave, the bill seeks to amend Section 57(1) of the Labour Act to extend the duration from the current 12 weeks to 16 weeks, which translates to four months. Additionally, it includes an option for an extra two weeks in cases of caesarean section, stillbirth(s), or multiple births. The proposed extension aims to provide mothers with more time to recover from childbirth and to bond with their newborns.
In terms of paternity leave, the bill aims to introduce a new provision under Section 20 of the Labour Act. This provision would grant fathers a minimum of 7 days and a maximum of 4 weeks of paternity leave, with the option of an additional two weeks in cases of caesarean section, stillbirth(s), or multiple births of their spouse. This initiative aims to promote gender equality, encourage shared parenting responsibilities, and strengthen family bonds.
The bill is part of ongoing efforts to enhance labour laws in Ghana and is expected to be deliberated upon by Parliament in the coming sessions. If approved, it would mark a significant step forward in supporting the well-being of families and promoting a more inclusive work environment.
