First Female President of the Ghana Bar Association (GBA) | Attorney
Head of Chambers - Ghartey and Ghartey | Legal Consultant
Giving Back - Mentoring Young Generation Legal Professionals
Efua Ghartey’s journey to becoming the first female President of the Ghana Bar Association (GBA) is nothing short of inspiring. Her story is a powerful testament to perseverance, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to breaking barriers in the legal world. It all began in 1989 when Efua graduated from the University of Ghana, ready to step into the world of law. She was called to the Ghana Bar in 1991 and immediately began her career by advocating for the underprivileged as a Legal Aid Officer. This was just the beginning of her path to greatness. In 1994, Efua co-founded Ghartey & Ghartey, a law firm specializing in corporate law, maritime law, joint ventures, corporate restructuring, and litigation, alongside her husband Joe Ghartey. The firm quickly became a significant force in Ghana’s legal landscape, but Efua’s ambitions extended far beyond. Throughout the years, Efua actively contributed to various organizations. She held executive positions within the International Federation of Female Lawyers (FIDA), served on the National Council of the Ghana Bar Association, and chaired numerous boards both nationally and internationally. Her leadership journey is remarkable; she was Chairperson of the Global Council of the United Bible Societies and currently leads as Chairperson of World Vision Ghana. Her tireless commitment to service and justice was evident across every role she took on.
But her legal career wasn’t just about titles and positions. Efua’s election as the first female President of the GBA in 2023 was a groundbreaking moment. This victory didn’t come easy. She had made two previous attempts at the GBA presidency, each time narrowly missing out by just a few votes. But Efua didn’t let those defeats slow her down. Instead, she continued to push forward, advocating for change and equality within Ghana’s legal profession. Her resilience paid off when she triumphed over her closest competitor with 1,278 votes, shattering the male-dominated leadership of the GBA.
Efua’s rise to this historic achievement represents a transformative shift in the legal field, inspiring young women across Ghana and beyond to chase their dreams relentlessly. As a trailblazer, Efua is changing the narrative for female lawyers, paving the way for the next generation of leaders to step into spaces they once thought unreachable. Her election is not just a personal victory but a momentous win for gender equality and the legal profession.
Beyond the courtroom, Efua’s impact is deeply felt in the communities she serves. From leading World Vision Ghana to being a guiding force for numerous legal bodies, she’s built a legacy grounded in service, excellence, and a vision for a more inclusive future. Whether mentoring young lawyers or advocating for social change, Efua’s influence reaches far beyond the walls of any institution.
For the next generation of aspiring lawyers and leaders, Efua Ghartey’s story is a powerful reminder that persistence, passion, and purpose can indeed shatter glass ceilings. Her journey from Legal Aid Officer to GBA President is a true inspiration, showing that when you aim high and never give up, you can change history.
Social Media Handles:
Twitter: EfuaGharteyesq
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