Child-focused organisations call for expansion of safe recreational spaces in Tamale
Child-focused organisations in Tamale have appealed to the government, traditional authorities, and other stakeholders to make land available for the development and expansion of playgrounds to support the growth and development of children. The call was made during the commemoration of this year’s International Day of Play at the St. Paul Junior High School in Tamale.
The Mata Da Aiki Foundation, in partnership with the Planned Parenthood Association of Ghana, PPAG, and She 360, organised a fun-filled event featuring games and educational activities for pupils.
Although play is often viewed simply as entertainment, child-rights advocates say it is a vital tool for learning, creativity, social interaction, and healthy development.
The International Day of Play is observed annually on June 11. It was established by the United Nations in 2024 to promote and protect the right of every child to play.
At the event in Tamale, pupils of St. Paul JHS participated in a variety of traditional and indoor games, including ampe and draughts.
The activities provided an opportunity for the children to interact freely, build confidence, develop teamwork skills and learn beyond the classroom environment.
Speaking to Zaa News after the programme, the Executive Director of Mata Da Aiki Foundation, Poag-Naaba Tehibeo Ayisha Mohammed, stressed that play is essential to the intellectual, emotional and social development of children.
She urged parents to create time for their children to engage in recreational activities instead of placing emphasis only on academic work.
Poag-Naaba Tehibeo Ayisha Mohammed further appealed to the government and traditional authorities to support the provision and expansion of safe playgrounds in schools and communities.
The Executive Director of She 360, Sherifatu Yakubu, also expressed concern over the limited number of safe recreational spaces available to children, particularly in urban communities.
She called for deliberate action to protect existing playgrounds from encroachment and to create more child-friendly recreational spaces.
A representative of Planned Parenthood Association of Ghana, Zubaida Salifu, has underscored the need for parents, schools and community leaders to recognise play as a fundamental right of every child and a vital component of their holistic development.
She said the organisers believe that increased investment in playgrounds and recreational activities would help nurture healthier, more confident, creative and socially responsible children.
Source: Ibrahim Angaangmeni Alhassan/zaaghana.com
