ActionAid Ghana has called for stronger measures to end child marriage and school-related abuse. The organization urged government and community leaders to invest more in girls’ rights, education, and leadership.
This call was made during the 2026 International Day of the Girl-Child celebration in Techiman, Bono East Region. The event’s theme was “End Child Marriage and Invest in Girls’ Rights.”
Kwame Afram Denkyira, ActionAid Ghana’s Regional Programme Manager, addressed traditional leaders, educators, students, and other stakeholders. He emphasized that girls should be seen as rights-holders and agents of change.
“We say ayikoo to our girls,” he stated. “Girls are not victims but rights holders deserving justice, resources, and power.”
Mr. Denkyira highlighted several challenges facing girls. These include school-related gender-based violence, early marriage, digital exclusion, climate change effects, and austerity measures.
He noted that recent sexual abuse cases in schools reveal deeper structural inequalities. Accountability and action are necessary to address these failures.
Silence and patriarchal power often protect perpetrators at the expense of survivors. Therefore, it is crucial to strengthen systems that safeguard girls and ensure justice.
Ellen White Opoku, Techiman Municipal Girl-Child Coordinator, stressed the need for collective efforts to end child marriage. Parents, traditional authorities, religious leaders, and law enforcement agencies must work together.
She warned that abuse could deprive girls of their childhood and limit future opportunities.
ActionAid Ghana urged the government, Parliament, local authorities, and traditional leaders to take practical steps for girl protection. They called for stronger accountability regarding child marriage and abuse.
The organization also advocated for survivor-centered support and safer schools that respond to gender needs. Increased investment in quality education is essential for rural girls.
Other recommendations included fully implementing existing child protection laws like the Children’s Act of 1998 (Act 560). Gender-responsive budgets prioritizing girls’ rights were also suggested.
A message from ActionAid Ghana’s Country Director reinforced this position on investing in girls as a matter of justice rather than charity.
“Girls in Ghana are not victims; they are rights-holders shaping our future,” the message stated.
“Girls are not just the future; they lead today. When we deliver justice by removing barriers, their power transforms our country.”
ActionAid Ghana reaffirmed its commitment to working with traditional authorities and communities in Bono East Region to promote equality for girls.
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