The Department of Children, under the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection has organised a national forum to mark this year’s National Children’s Day.
The event, themed “Building Bridges: Fostering Child Rights through Cultural, Religious, and Traditional Leadership,” sought to examine the role of cultural norms, religious beliefs and traditional leadership in shaping child protection and the realisation of children’s rights.
The celebration aimed to address and transform harmful cultural practices within the framework of the Convention on the Rights of the Child and Ghana’s Children’s Act of 1998 (Act 560), with the ultimate goal of enhancing the well-being and protection of children.
Speaking at the programme, the Minister for Gender, Children, and Social Protection, Madam Dakoa Newman, noted that many children continue to endure practices that deprive them of their childhood and their future, even in the face of multiple regulations designed to improve their rights.
She cited child marriage as one such problem that robs girls of their potential. “Child marriage is a significant challenge that robs girls of their futures,” she added.
The minister called on cultural and religious leaders to champion the fight against such harmful practices and urged them to speak out and work to shift societal norms that compromise the well-being of young girls.
She urged Ghanaians to foster a society that respects and upholds the rights of every child.
The Chief Director of the Ministry, Dr Afisah Zakariah, underscored the importance of education and collaboration in eradicating harmful practices. She emphasised that Ghana must build a future where no child’s potential is stifled by cultural norms or practices that violate their rights.
“This celebration marks not just a moment of reflection but a commitment to continue working towards a society that values the voices and rights of every child,”
Representing UNICEF, Paulina Sarvilahti highlighted the critical role traditional and religious leaders play in child welfare. She noted that these leaders are key influencers in promoting peace, protecting child rights, and ensuring the fulfilment of children’s welfare needs.
“UNICEF will continue to collaborate with relevant Ministries, Departments, Agencies and traditional and religious leaders to create safe, protective environments for all children in Ghana,”
Grace Acheampong, ISD
