Efua Ghartey: Ghana's First Female President of Ghana Bar Association

Efua Ghartey has made history as the first female president of the Ghana Bar Association (GBA), marking a monumental achievement for women in Ghana’s legal profession.

Her groundbreaking election shatters a longstanding barrier in an institution traditionally led by men, making her a symbol of gender equality and empowerment within the legal sector.

Educational Background and Legal Career

An alumna of Wesley Girls' Senior High School, Efua Ghartey pursued higher education at the University of Ghana, graduating with a Bachelor's degree in Law in 1989. In 1991, she was called to the Ghana Bar. Her early career began as a Legal Aid Officer, where she provided crucial legal services to the underprivileged, before joining Akufo-Addo, Prempeh & Co. as a legal associate.

In 1994, she co-founded Ghartey & Ghartey alongside Joe Ghartey. As Head of Chambers, Efua has built a strong reputation in corporate law, joint ventures, corporate restructuring, labour and employment, company law, maritime law, and litigation.

Leadership in the Legal Community

Efua Ghartey’s impact extends beyond her legal practice. She has held several leadership roles within the Ghana Bar Association and has been actively involved with the International Federation of Female Lawyers (FIDA) since 1992, serving in various executive capacities. Prior to her election as GBA President, she served as the President of the Greater Accra Bar Association from 2014 to 2022.

Efua's contributions to legal education and governance include her tenure as a National Executive Member and National Assistant Public Relations Officer of the GBA, where she worked on policy and communication initiatives aimed at advancing the legal profession in Ghana.

Board Memberships and Global Influence

Efua Ghartey has held prominent leadership roles on both national and international boards. She served as the Chairperson of the Global Council of the United Bible Societies from 2016 to 2019 and chaired the Bible Society of Ghana for six years. She currently holds the position of Chairperson of World Vision Ghana, where she continues to lead efforts in social justice and community development.

Expertise and Certifications

Efua Ghartey’s expertise spans corporate law, administration, and alternative dispute resolution (ADR). She is certified in ADR from California State University-Sacramento and holds certificates in Basic and Advanced Securities from the Ghana Stock Exchange. Her comprehensive knowledge of corporate law and securities law has made her a sought-after legal expert in Ghana.

Passion and Vision

Efua Ghartey’s career is marked by her unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and empowerment. Her historic election as the first female president of the Ghana Bar Association serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring female lawyers in Ghana. Efua’s mission is to continue breaking barriers and fostering an inclusive legal profession that paves the way for future generations of women.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Efua Ghartey

1. Who is Efua Ghartey? Efua Ghartey is the first female president of the Ghana Bar Association, a corporate law expert, and co-founder of the law firm Ghartey & Ghartey. She is a trailblazer in Ghana’s legal profession with a focus on corporate law, maritime law, and litigation.

2. What is Efua Ghartey’s educational background? Efua Ghartey graduated from Wesley Girls' Senior High School and the University of Ghana, where she earned her Bachelor's degree in Law in 1989. She was called to the Ghana Bar in 1991 and has pursued further certifications in Alternative Dispute Resolution and Securities Law.

3. What are some of her notable achievements? Efua Ghartey co-founded Ghartey & Ghartey in 1994, has served as the President of the Greater Accra Bar Association, and is currently the Chairperson of World Vision Ghana. She also chaired the Global Council of the United Bible Societies from 2016 to 2019.

4. What does Ghartey & Ghartey specialize in? The law firm Ghartey & Ghartey, co-founded by Efua Ghartey, specializes in corporate law, joint ventures, corporate restructuring, labour and employment law, company law, maritime law, and litigation.

5. How has Efua Ghartey contributed to gender equality in law? Efua Ghartey’s election as the first female president of the Ghana Bar Association represents a significant step toward gender equality in Ghana’s legal profession. She has also held leadership roles in FIDA, an organization that advocates for women’s rights.

6. What boards has Efua Ghartey served on? Efua Ghartey has served on several national and international boards, including as Chairperson of the Global Council of the United Bible Societies and the Bible Society of Ghana. She currently serves as the Chairperson of World Vision Ghana.

7. What is Efua Ghartey’s focus in her legal practice? Her legal practice focuses on corporate law, particularly in joint ventures, corporate restructuring, maritime law, labour and employment law, and litigation.

8. How can I connect with Efua Ghartey? You can connect with Efua Ghartey via her LinkedIn profile or visit the Ghartey & Ghartey law firm website.

Conclusion

Efua Ghartey’s remarkable achievements in Ghana’s legal profession underscore her role as a trailblazer for gender equality and legal excellence. From her leadership in corporate law to her advocacy for social justice, Efua has left an indelible mark on Ghana’s legal landscape, inspiring many as she paves the way for future female leaders.

For more information or to connect with Efua Ghartey, visit her LinkedIn profile