Accra: The Akrofuom District National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), has convened a stakeholder meeting to address issues surrounding adolescent reproductive health and Gender-Based Violence (GBV).
According to Ghana News Agency, the gathering included representatives from the Department of Social Welfare, Domestic Violence and Victims Support Unit (DOVVSU), Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), the Traditional Council, and leaders from community-based and youth organizations. The meeting aimed to empower local actors in promoting adolescent development, reducing teenage pregnancies, preventing GBV, and reinforcing community structures that support young people’s wellbeing.
Mr. Kassim Ali, the Akrofuom District Director of the NCCE, emphasized the importance of the dialogue in light of increasing teenage pregnancy and school dropout rates. He pointed out that broken homes and weak parental guidance are significant challenges to children’s development and social values. Mr. Ali underscored the collective responsibility of stakeholders to protect the future of children and adolescents.
Mrs. Louisa Suglo from DOVVSU highlighted the frequent occurrence of gender-based abuses in the district. She called for enhanced community sensitization on different forms of abuse and available reporting and redress channels. Many victims, she noted, remain silent due to a lack of awareness about their rights and available support.
Mrs. Margaret Afriyie, the Adolescent Reproductive Health Focal Person, stressed the importance of ongoing engagement with young people on sexual health issues. She expressed concern over rising cases of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and teenage pregnancies, which could impede the district’s human capital development. She urged parents, teachers, and community leaders to support adolescents in making informed life choices.
Participants at the meeting agreed on the need to strengthen collaboration among institutions and local leaders to sustain educational and advocacy efforts at the grassroots level.