Recognise role of children in peacebuilding – SOS Children’s Village

Mr. Alexander Kekula, National Director of SOS Children's Village Ghana, has emphasised that stakeholders in Ghana's electoral process must acknowledge the vital role children play in the country's peacebuilding efforts.He stated that by providing children with a platform to participate in peacebuilding, 'we are empowering them to be part of the solution.'Speaking at the launch of the 'Stomping for Peace Campaign' of the SOS Children's Village Ghana, Mr. Kekula noted that children were often the most vulnerable in times of political and social unrest.Therefore, stakeholders must diligently strive to maintain peace and prevent children from suffering the consequences of instability.The Stomping for Peace Campaign was aimed at highlighting the impact of electoral violence on Ghanaian children.?Mr. Kekula stated that the campaign served as a platform to advocate for children's voices, aiming to prevent potential violence.'With each stomp, they seek attention for their needs-peace, mental well-being, and a stable environment in which they can thrive,' he remarked.He highlighted that globally, millions of children live in conflict zones, many forcibly displaced from their homes.'These figures are not mere statistics; they represent real children enduring unimaginable hardships, such as loss of family, trauma, exploitation, and the theft of their childhood,' he added.Mr. Kekula stressed that it was the shared responsibility of all stakeholders to transform children's rights from mere words into meaningful actions.Miss Akyedze Aidoo, a student at SOS Herman Gmeiner School in Tema, called on the Electoral Commission to maintain the highest standards of transparency and integrity, emphasising that a fair electoral process would help prevent tension and violence.She urged politicians to prioritise peace over politics and ensure their campaigns convey messages of unity and tolerance.'Encourage your supporters to remain peaceful, no matter the election results.'We ask you to pledge to make this elec tion season one of peace and respect. Use your voices to promote peace and not division. Lead by example and show us what it means to care for the well-being of every citizen, especially children,' she said.?Miss Aidoo called on the security services to safeguard the nation's peace and to remain impartial in their duties.Source: Ghana News Agency