The Centre for Development and Policy Advocacy (CEDEPA Ghana) has launched the second phase of its “Promoting Child Rights and Equal Opportunities” project. The initiative, titled “Promoting Child Rights and Equal Opportunities for Street Children and Children in Other Vulnerable Situations,” seeks to create an inclusive environment where street children feel a sense of belonging within Ghanaian society.
Under the theme “Empowering Local Communities to Lead Awareness Raising and Safeguarding of Child Rights in Northern Ghana,” the project’s second phase expands its scope to additional communities within the Tamale Metropolis, Tolon, and Kumbungu districts. Phase one, implemented three years ago, successfully contributed to reducing school dropouts, child marriage, teenage pregnancy, and the migration of young girls into hazardous labor, such as “kayaye.”
The second phase will focus on enhancing awareness of child rights and safeguarding principles in communities and schools. Key activities include the establishment and training of Community Child Protection Committees (CPCs), strengthening the capacity of teachers and school administrators to promote child rights, and advocating for a safer educational environment for children in vulnerable situations.
Speaking at the launch, Mr. Mahamud Sule, the Regional Education Planner, emphasized the collective responsibility of parents, teachers, and community leaders in ensuring children’s holistic development. He stressed that a strong teacher-student connection fosters a positive learning environment and contributes to a child’s overall well-being.
Mohammed Rashidatu, Head of the Department for Social Welfare and Community Development, highlighted the significance of proper child care at home, which includes access to nutritious meals, adequate shelter, and a healthy lifestyle. She warned that inadequate supervision and neglect often expose children to risks such as substance abuse, teenage pregnancy, and school dropout.
Mr. Ziblim Alhassan, Research and Development Consultant at CEDEPA, reflected on the impact of the project’s first phase, noting its success in addressing pressing issues affecting children. He encouraged the inclusion of vocational training in education for children with an interest in acquiring technical skills.
He said the launch of phase two signifies CEDEPA’s commitment to protecting and empowering vulnerable children through community-driven initiatives and strategic advocacy. The project’s expansion is expected to further enhance child protection structures and contribute to the long-term well-being of children in Northern Ghana.
Mr. Imoro Tahidu, the Tamale Metro Director of the National Commission for Civic Education, stated that the decent upbringing of children plays a significant role in their future responsibility. He stressed that parents must take care of their children as mandated by the Constitution of Ghana, and fulfilling their roles concerning children’s special rights will have a positive impact.
Mr. Alhassan Ibrahim Ndoo, Assembly Member of Gumo in the Kumbungu district, expressed appreciation to CEDEPA and funding partners for their outstanding kindness toward the chosen communities. He added that he would use his position as an Assembly Member to address challenges faced by children in those communities and educate parents on proper child-rearing practices.
The project is a three-year initiative jointly implemented by CEDEPA in Tamale and Safe Child Advocacy (SCA) based in Kumasi, with funding support from Misereor (Germany) and Adamfo Ghana (Netherlands).
Source: Ibrahim Angaangmeni Alhassan/zaaradio.com
