The main opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, has pledged to extend maternity leave by an additional month and introduce a week-long paternity leave if he wins the 2024 general elections.

Speaking at the NDC Women’s Manifesto launch on Monday, 30 September 2024, Mr. Mahama underscored the importance of parental support during the early months of a child’s life.

He highlighted that the current three-month maternity leave for new mothers is inadequate, particularly as many must return to work just when their babies begin to wean.

"By the fourth month, when a baby begins to wean, mothers often have to return to work.

"I will add an extra month to allow mothers to monitor their child’s development before resuming their professional responsibilities,” Mr. Mahama said.

The former president also proposed a week-long paternity leave for fathers, allowing them to assist mothers and bond with their newborns during the critical post-birth period.

However, this benefit would be limited to legally married men who can provide proof of marriage.

“We want both parents to play an active role in the early stages of a child’s life. Mothers will receive four months of maternity leave, and fathers will have one week of paternity leave to support their wives and bond with their children,” Mr. Mahama added.